Digital Degree Apprentice Review

As a digital apprentice, the main advantage is that I am able to obtain a regular BSc in Computer Science while attending the regular timetabled classes and lectures, while still being an apprentice of Vodafone. Our commitment to Vodafone means that I have work placements over summer breaks, and in my third year, before returning to graduate in my fourth year.

Aside from the formal education gained in the University of Birmingham, the summer and year-long placement offer valuable experience, and opportunities to work on my teamwork skills. Within Vodafone I also had access to certain employee training and qualification courses, such as an SQL & database bootcamp. The placements also offered a great networking opportunity.

Everyone I have worked with, both at Vodafone and as part of my degree, have been very pleasant and helpful throughout my apprenticeship. The apprenticeship manager(s) have been wonderful and have stayed in touch with apprentices, and have always been available whenever I had a question. I have found the work culture at Vodafone favourable compared to other companies I have been at. Overall the programme has been thoroughly enjoyable and has met my high expectations.

There is always clear and consistent communication between programme leads and apprentices. It has never been unclear to me what the next steps in my apprenticeship were, and I always had some way to gauge my progress. The chain of command is clear and I know who to contact in the case of an inquiry or doubt.

Vodafone offers apprentices most of the benefits that regular employees enjoy, which are quite considerable especially for university students. As previously mentioned the apprentice manager is always available to answer questions and clarify the next steps or goals within the apprenticeship. Within my placement, my team manager was very patient and understanding and really helped me make the most of my time.

Vodafone generally does not interfere with the regular CS degree, and apprentices are mostly left to their own devices to progress through the course, which I think is a very good thing. There are certain milestones and goals that we are expected to complete throughout the year, but there are clearly explained and do not distract from the regular student experience. Overall, I would say the support we receive is adequate but never felt overbearing.

I can't overstate how valuable the placements have been in my professional and academic development. Being able to complete my degree while simultaneously being able to put that theory into action in a unique opportunity that I am very fortunate to have. The training provided has helped me better understand the content that I learn in lectures and how it is actually applied in a real business application.

Although the global pandemic limited what in-person social activities were able to be held at Vodafone, there were still social activities and events held regularly when safe to do so. As an example there was an outdoors sports day event during my placement, that offered a relaxed environment to socialize with co-workers. There were also many opportunities to network and learn about other teams and departments during my placements.

Yes

The work culture and working conditions at Vodafone have been enjoyable during my time with the business. The huge variety of roles and skillsets needed at the company mean that I would find it easy to recommend seeking a position in the company to almost anyone. Having worked at other tech-focused companies, Vodafone has been the most pleasant.

I think it is important to express and demonstrate a genuine interest in the particular field you are applying to. I have gained a lot from my apprenticeship but if I had not been passionate about computer science and software engineering beforehand, I would have probably not been successful in my application and would certainly not have benefitted as much as I have from the experience.