Level 6 Data Analyst Apprentice Review

I am a Machine Learning Engineer. Our projects is based on Google Cloud Platform. As a team we look to define ways of working for Data Scientists to reduce use case time to production. Personally, I look to test new releases from Google to ensure that no changes have effected the way we are currently working.

Upon completing one year at Vodafone I am very prods to say that I have come a long way. Specially with certain skills that all employers look for in candidates. For example, problem solving. As part of testing new releases when problems are identified, work arounds have to defined. Moreover, Collaboration and communication is vital with other team members to understand and learn from their experiences.

I am fully enjoying my journey thus far. I have learnt so much in the span of one year, which I strongly agree I would have not learned with just university. Learning from industry experts is an absolute privilege and not as intimidating as I imagined and progress happens really quickly in such environments.

It is decently organized. 20% of my working hours are dedicated to University and Studying. This allows me to have a good balance between learning, personal and work life. We also have Youth Committee leads that you can speak to about anything and your concerns are taken seriously. All the leads are super friendly and events are organized regularly.

Support is provided when asked for. Cath ups are regularly organized from Human Resources teams and from managers side. When issues are highlighted solution is brought out as soon as possible to prevent limiting your personal development on the programme. We also have plans in place to tack aims and objectives that are designed by yourselves for progression checking.

University structure is just like classic university pathway. Support teams are set up for students specially. For example, university has dedicated support providers to read through assignments and provide personalized and well detailed feedback. Tutors are supportive of students asking questions and are happy to help you understand things in more detail.

To some extend the qualification provides a base of understanding. As it is important to understand theoretical perspectives to be able to articulate your understanding. University also help you feel confident as you have a tangible / measured achievement. However, the practical experience is a lot more useful and develops your understanding on a much higher and detailed level than the degree.

There are plenty of organized events and groups set up by the Youth Committee. Networking events place regularly where apprentices and graduates meet up. There are organized at different base locations too. There are also team meet ups. For example, all Data Analyst apprentices meet on certain events. Moreover, there are venues booked for the evening after work to for drinks.

Yes

Having seen the benefits myself from this apprenticeship I definitely would advice others as to give it a try. In my opinion, apprenticeships are the best of two worlds as you get to understand theory from your qualification and you get to develop upon your knowledge at from from practical implementation.

Be ready to give it your all. You are definitely challenged to learn new things every day. Feel free to approach people with many more years of experience than you. They are always happy to see others who are open minded and willing to learn. Also recommend being not saying yes to everything and define your vision and articulate it to allow managers to support you in achieving it.