Software Engineer Review

I am a Software Engineer working within Applications/Digital Solutions delivery unit. On a project I mainly operate in a Developer role, tasks include programming, configuration, managing databases - working with different Microsoft technologies. I have worked on large government contracts. Daily interactions include team planning meetings and demonstrations.

Yes, loads! Since joining I have developed a sound knowledge of programming fundamentals and applied the skills I have learned in a production environment. I've gained City and Guilds qualifications on training and through Apprenticeship coursework. In addition to technical skills, I have learnt how to interact with team members and demonstrate the behaviour of an industry professional.

I really enjoy working on projects as part of a team, most of the time the work is exciting and a great opportunity to learn new skills. The work environment on projects is engaging. The coursework side of things could be improved in that there is little input from training providers about how work is completed. There seems to be a mismatch in places between work on project and applying this for assessment.

There is a strong emphasis on junior talent and most of the time Apprentices are made to feel valued and best of all equal to more experienced colleagues on the same project. For example, a team of developers are all valued in the same way. There are opportunities for recognition through the recognition programme and through feedback collected as part of the performance review process.

Although relatively new, the programme needs to become more stable and structured. Since joining the programme has been constantly evolving and is difficult to keep up with.

During the initial training period support was provided when learning programming fundamentals and was delivered in a structured, productive way. Since then there was very little input from the training provider. The grading criteria referenced 'guided learning hours', I don't agree that this is currently in place. Although experience on projects should be used to facilitate the completion of coursework, I feel teaching input for some concepts is necessary to help with work based assessments.

Support is provided through your line manager, reviewer, more experienced colleagues on project and Apprentice peers. Issues are looked into quickly by your managers and they are willing to help with all aspects of the Apprenticeship. There is always somebody to ask about business or Apprenticeship queries.

This depends on a number of factors. Depending on where you live in relation to your base location (home to office) travel costs vary. If working away on a client site, expenses are provided to cover travel/accommodation. You are also provided with a company charge card to use for expenses which minimises the impact of business expenditure. Pay and progression is generous and there are frequent opportunities for increase in pay and promotion. Hard work is recognised and rewarded.

There are opportunities to promote Capgemini in schools. Team events are occasionally scheduled both for training and social. Whilst completing the initial training, living on campus was a great experience outside of work. Work/life balance can become challenging because of the extra responsibility of completing coursework outside of work. There are discounts on offer for gym memberships.

Yes

Capgemini are a key technology player in a fast moving industry. There are so many valuable resources available to a Capgemini Apprentice to accelerate starting a career in IT.

Demonstrate your enthusiasm for areas of IT you are interested in. Think about the skills and qualities Capgemini are looking for in junior talent. Embrace change and be prepared for challenging, new experiences. Understand that hard work and dedication is required to complete the Apprenticeship - working full time plus study!