Level 7 Data Science Apprentice Review

by Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Rating

7.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

- Working on research based data science projects - Consistent interactions and support with Line Manager and Senior Line Manager - Working for external research based stakeholder - with one other (project supervisor)

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

- Developed Python skills - Developed knowledge of research practices - Developed basic software engineering knowledge (creating packages, version control etc) - Developed knowledge of machine learning and how to apply it - Developed knowledge of advanced statistical methods

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy my job role very much as I find my interests and areas I want to improve in align very well with what I need to know for the role.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

- Projects and tasks are well organised and delegated - Regular meetings and catch ups with LM and SLM, and other team members - Given regular time to study for other elements of uni coursw

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

- Good amount of high-quality support both technical and Uni based - Regular updates and catch ups with management

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

- I feel very well supported by the University - Skills coach is a great help and support and provides some great advice for how to navigate the course - All lecturers have also been very good.

9/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Whilst I believe both the company and uni provide me with great support (and I very much enjoy the specific role I am in) I believe that so far the University course has been largely irrelevant for my role (besides Machine Learning module), and course appears to be tailored specifically for more business focussed apprentices (rather than technical) who have been in their roles much longer (ie not early career)

3/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

- Cake Club - Graduate outings -Conferences

7/10

9a. Would you recommend Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I really enjoy my job and the culture in the office makes it a great place to work.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)?

Ensure you have good understanding of university course, and how relevant it will be to the job role. However, both my university and employer have been fantastic in helping me to navigate this, and it is a great place to work.