IT Apprentice Review

My role runs on a rotational basis, which involves me working for a different IT function every eight months. My current role is a digital business analyst. This role entails me too work with multiple teams within AstraZeneca Operations, to find help bring IT based solutions to issues they are having within their operational area.

Since starting at AstraZeneca I have developed both soft skills and functional skills. AstraZeneca has provided us with funded Personal development and presentation workshops where we were able to work on our soft skill development. On top of this I have also made the most out of my level six degree apprenticeship where I am working to become a professional in Data Analytics.

AstraZeneca really is a great place to work! There isn't really anything I can fault about my programme. We have a fantastic support network that we can use to make the most of our programme. AstraZeneca is very forward as a company with apprentices and they really push us to succeed and do the best we can. My programme has currently far exceeded my expectations and I am really enjoying it.

As mentioned before the IT Degree Apprenticeship at AstraZeneca has a fantastic support network. This involves Programme leaders and Apprentice Support leads that ensure apprentices are properly inducted to AstraZeneca. We also have a Study Support lead that interfaces with education providers and ensures apprentices get the best education possible. When it comes to day to day activities we have our team line managers too assign us work and support us when we are struggling. I would say our programme is very well supported and organised.

One of the biggest draws to AstraZeneca's IT Degree Apprenticeship is the incredibly large support network provided to apprentices. We are assigned brilliant line managers, mentors and even a workplace buddy. Line managers help us with day to day tasks. Our mentors help us with career progression and continually support us throughout the programme. Our buddies are also apprentices within our programme who are there to help share their past experiences and give us as much guidance as possible. Support is highly accessible at AstraZeneca and we are always advised to go and get support when we need it. Everyone is very helpful when I ask for support and their is a great overall attitude to support within the business.

Manchester Metropolitan University does an all round pretty good job at supporting students. The level of support definitely doesn't compare to what I receive at work but I'd still rate it pretty highly overall. Tutors and Skills Coaches are always on hand to help if needed, but I have found in past some of the feedback on assignments can lack in detail a little. If that was stronger it would easily be 10/10.

My qualification doesn't necessarily play too much of a part in my day to day role at AstraZeneca at the moment, but I think it will do in years to come. First year material at MMU was very general to help us develop a good overall knowledge but it wasn't necessarily very specific to what I did at work during that time. In years to come I am looking to specialise in Data Analytics at MMU and I think this will definitely play a big role on my input to the workplace too.

Since starting at AstraZeneca, I have been involved in a few extra curricular activities. Unfortunately due to current circumstances with the COVID-19 pandemic, there has not been many extra curricular activates planned as they are not business critical and so pose an unnecessary risk to AstraZeneca. I am sure in future there will be more activities planned.

Yes

AstraZeneca without doubt has been one of the best decisions I've made in my life. There are more reasons than I can list as to why I'd recommend the company to a friend. To say a few it would definitely be the support we are offered, the meaningful work that we do and the personal level of interest that other colleagues hold in Apprentice development.

A few tips from me would be too make sure you research the company and have a good understanding of basic science before you apply. My interview process was completely virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic but I would say be well prepared and be yourself on the day. AstraZeneca look for authentic, honest and engaged young people to join the programme. If you prepare well and are engaged and come across well on the day then this will really help.