Global Security Apprentice Review

Throughout my apprenticeship I got the chance to be a member of four different security teams. This involved helping team members complete their work and contributing to different tasks. I had to spend one day a week studying for my apprenticeship material and working on my coursework.

The apprenticeship material helped me develop my technical skills. Work provided an environment in which I could apply those skills and further develop my soft skills, particularly communication and planning.

I enjoyed my programme because a lot of the apprenticeship material gave us a holistic understanding of Cyber Security and different roles within the industry. However, at times I would've preferred it to be targeted towards more specific and technical/practical areas, without missing the management/regulatory side.

It is well organised and expectations were clearly set when I joined. However, introductions and team dynamics greatly varied depending on how the team functioned/the work they deal with. Some teams had daily meetings, whereas others collaborated when necessary.

My manager always made sure I received enough support and everyone was willing to help me and have a chat. The HR team at Sage does an amazing job with making sure apprentices are having a great time and there are various channels for different kinds of support.

Tutors tend to be generally helpful and keen to help with improving project work. They also have support channels available and we have regular meetings to make sure we are keeping up with work and self-study time.

My qualification made me understand various areas of Information Security. The information we've been taught applies to all teams I've been a member of and it serves as a very useful foundation I can build on depending on what my career goals are.

Lots of professional networking events organised by the Talents team and apprentices are encouraged to share their experiences and interact with other students all the time. We also have volunteering days and can always reach out to others if we take interest in the work they're doing.

Yes

The work we're doing is very interesting and rewarding, and the people I've met make it worthwhile.

It's important to keep in mind that others value people being true to themselves - individuals who are not afraid to ask questions and find positives in everything they do. Show enthusiasm, initiative, and adaptability.