Technology Degree Apprentice Review

As a technology degree apprentice, I spend year 1 and 2 as a normal software engineering student at queens with 10 week long summer placements. In year 3 and 4 i do one semester at university and one semester on placement. When on placement i am placed on various projects that vary in activity. In my experience, primarily I attend meetings and code .

I have developed my skills grealy through the blend of study and work. I have obtained skills in a wide range of software engineering practices and gained business skills through my work with PwC. The apprenticeship allows you to constantly be learning new skills and improve your current technical abilitys.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme, being salaried while studying aswell as a fully funded degree means I am not stressed over having a part time job to support myself or worried about debt after university. The people you meet by being a part of PwC is also a plus. Networking with very skilled and professional people allows you to 'up your game'

Unlike many other similar apprenticeships, you study software engineering at queens the same as any other student not on the apprenticeship. Having placements in between study allows you to go into the next semester with a wide range of new skills and that help you succeed in your qualification. Placements are enjoyable and well organised/structured

PwC are very supportive throughout the apprenticeship. I am assigned a career coach and a 'buddy'. They are invaluable resources that help guide you and offer advice. There is friendly, inclusive atmosphere in the workplace and colleagues are very helpful. The support network from other apprentices is also a bonus.

PwC have funded various certifications and training hours for me during placement on top of funding my degree expenses. Career coaches stay up to date on how you are doing at university and if any help is required. Currently as I do my dissertation, the colleagues i've met during placement have been a great asset for research and guidance.

Queens university software engineering BEng curriculum is useful for when you go out on placement. You learn a broad range of skills and become a well rounded software engineer. Much of what you do on placement can be a 'learn on the job' situation, however, Queens empower you to be adaptable and learn technologies quickly

I benefit from being apart of the workplace and the university. There was many social events during my summer placements, including friday night drinks, five-a-side, christmas dinner, etc. On the university side, you can still join the Queens societies even though you are employed as an apprentice. I have been on the queens ski trip and various others.

Yes

PwC offers what i believe to be the best apprenticeship scheme for Software Engineers in the UK. I have excelled in my abilities greatly since joining the scheme. They invest a lot in their people and work hard to make sure I am happy in my work. The office in Belfast is also very nice.

Research the company and the values. Read up about what sort of work we do. For students applying to the apprenticeship look into doing experience week schemes prior to interviews as these will be a great asset for you to talk about during your interviews and give you a clearer idea of what PwC does