Software Developer Review

On a daily basis I am part of the Mainframe Hardware and Capacity teams and I am responsible for checking the teams incident queues and arranging for hardware repairs. I frequently interact with my colleagues and external vendors. I still have little responsibility at this point, I have taken part in various Mainframe installations

I have improved my skills with mainframe systems through the bank. I have increased my knowledge of various different IT areas through the learning that has been provided to me by QA. I have been on two internal training course and 5 external training courses. I have improving my networking and communication through getting to do these with other apprentices

Covid has been a challenge but as the programme has progressed I feel I have been able to get more out of it. The return to offices has definitely helped as someone who had no prior mainframe experience. The work can sometimes be slightly tedious but it is adaptable and enjoyable that way. The team is excellent and I enjoy learning from their experience. I expected to do software development but it did not turn out that way. I would say that overall I enjoy the prospect of progression.

The induction was very well set out as there was a lot of apprentice support provided, the training has been useful but definitely could have been a bit more role specific. The support network around me has been excellent and I have no complaints. I have been given ample time to study and complete my qualification activities. I have weekly meetings with my manager and monthly meetings with my training provider. Tasks have been delegated effectively and the difficulty of these tasks has been increased at a manageable rate. The team has a clear hierarchy and I know who to speak to when I require assistance. I think covid has played a part in disrupting it however outwith this it has been very good.

I receive ample support from my manager and my team. I have not encountered the HR team very frequently but they were very effective during on boarding. I do not have a specific mentor but there are 2 ex-apprentices who have more or less taken on this role. Support is always availability however it's accessibility has been hindered as a result of covid. I have encountered multiple problems since I have started and my manager has reassured me at every turn. there has been a good attitude towards supporting me by the majority of my team.

Tutor / advisor - I have had all the support I needed Ian was very knowledgeable Accessibility of support - Emails sometimes went missing but it was communication was good overall Guidance with problems - I have had ample guidance when running into any troubles General attitude towards supporting you - excellent Do you enjoy it? - QA provide basic training and no more

No the only similarity is that they are both on computers. No the theory did not relate to my job in the slightest. No as the qualification provided knowledge that I had acquired in school. Some of the courses were poorly run and resulted in little being learnt from them.

I took part in voluntary tree planting which was a good experience. I found this was a good way to develop my network with my team and other similar teams in the bank. I have joined the 5 aside team at my work and I do this every Thursday night.

Yes

NatWest is a diverse company and has a forward thinking CEO. This trickles down to all levels of employment in the bank and I feel this helps me in my day to day work. I think this is a great place for people at the start of their careers as there are many opportunities available.

Take lots of notes from the get go. Try and take in as much as possible even if it is only a little bit. Take all the opportunities that come your way and shout about the achievements you make. Speak to ex apprentices as they help give a good view of the role.