Analyst/Programmer Review

I run the support desk for Business Energy quotation systems. Users log their issues and I have to provide solutions to the problems, this can be just giving advice or changing data or investigating code to identify the cause. I log a request for a program change if required. Sometimes I will be part of a project to do development work. No two days are alike and I am constantly switching programming languages and platforms to look after every system we have.

This is not a role linked to the apprenticeship. As such, it does not include any training. However I am always learning as new issues crop up all the time and I need to be able to deal with anything that is found. I have had the opportunity to develop programming skill in various languages over the years.

I love going to university and being part of the degree apprenticeship programme. I have learned so many new things and been given the opportunity to prove and enhance my skills with each module. There are people from a range of companies on the programme so it is a good opportunity to meet and work with different people.

The degree course is well defined and we knew what all the modules would be and when from the start. The apprenticeship part for me is virtually non-existent although the real apprentices at SSE have a rotation of placements to give them experience in all areas of IT and access to a mentor.

Being an existing staff member, the apprenticeship part for me is virtually non-existent although the real apprentices at SSE have a rotation of placements to give them experience in all areas of IT and access to a mentor. My employers have been supportive in terms of making sure I am given the time to work on my university assignments and also in finding projects for me to undertake for some of the modules.

The university has been very supportive and helpful. I know I can always ask them if I need anything and they will do their best to provide it. Even with the whole COVID pandemic and lockdown, they were always available and quick to respond to queries or requests for things.

I have learned about all aspects of IT - not just programming but organisation, strategy, operations and support. It has opened my eyes to the bigger picture and helped me understand the wider context of my role. I feel better equipped to help my customers and have a greater appreciation of the organisation as a whole and the different parts that comprise it.

There are two regular agile events every week where colleagues can get together to talk about all things agile. Staff have the opportunity to join the Shadow Board which meets to evaluate initiatives at an executive level. They work with people from all levels of the organisation and have the chance to evaluate present and future strategic opportunities.

Yes

SSE is a big employer and its industry is considered part of the Critical National Infrastructure. It is well placed to help with the government's Net Zero targets as it is always undertaking green generation projects. There is a huge diversity of roles in the company, so there are opportunities for everyone.

As an existing staff member, I never went through the apprentice process which I believe comprises assessment days and interviews. I did have to attend an interview to get my place on the apprenticeship though. I think SSE likes people to be well rounded with a range of skills and have an interest in greener energy to support the company mission. You do need to be committed to the study programme as it can be very hard to juggle all the demands.