Apprentice Software Engineer Review

My role involves attending usinversity 2 days a week, and working in a hybrid manner for the other 3, this may vary depending on the placement you are in as some are entirely on site while others are entirely home based, with some allowing for hybrid working.

I've learned lots of new skills since starting, learning a number of different programming languages both in university and work, and getting the opportunity to make use of them in real life situations. I also get to see the whole software development process first hand in work.

I hugely enjoy my programme, and feel that I have learned far more than I would have at university alone, all other apprentices and colleagues are very pleasant and have fair expectations of you as an apprentice.

On the whole, the apprenticeship is well structured, however the communication between the company and university can sometimes become disjointed, sometimes resulting in odd timetabling. The company side of the apprenticeship is always well organised, and plenty of notice is given before changing placements.

There is lots of support available as long as you communicate if you are struggling, there are very helpful skills coaches and placement managers in general are very supportive and helpful if you are struggling with your work. Most lecturers are also helpful at university and will set time aside to help with assignments.

I receive lots of support, as well as regular reviews where my skills coach can discuss my progress with me, and put support in place to help if it is required.

In my apprenticeship, we complete a level 4 NVQ diploma in aerospace software development engineering, this is comprised mostly of questions to demonstrate out knowledge on different topics, as well as evidence to show where we have demonstrated these skills.

Occasionally there are networking events for apprentices, however due to COVID-19 these have been relatively limited so far. As well as this, apprentices are sent on a training event with the outward bounds trust during their first year, this is to develop teamworking skills and meet with apprentices of other disciplines.

Yes

I feel that the mix of university and real workplace experience teach me a huge amount, as well as meeting a number of other likeminded apprentices. The apprenticeship also provides a very generous salary that more than covers all of my needs.

Make sure to research the company and the nature of the apprenticeship itself, you will not be expected to know lots about software engineering as this is taught to you, but showing an interest in the area and a willingness to learn will definitely help in the application process.