Software Engineer Apprentice Review

In my day-to-day role I attend a number of meetings such as stand ups, demos, and prioritisation. I also work towards building my portfolio with the supervision of my mentor. I use at least 20% of my week on prescribed learning and practical training (online tutorials/personal projects).

I have gained an understanding of the SDLC, methodologies i.e. Agile, Waterfall etc, databases and programming in Java. I have also worked on my presentation skills by presenting to my team.

I really enjoy the programme. I am enrolled on the Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship and I intend to progress to the Level 6.

The prescribed learning is thorough and there are 4 residentials at 3 days each to consolidate the topics. A lot of emphasis, however, is on learning in the workplace so communicating what you need to your in-work mentor is sort of left to you.

I am given ample time to learn at my own pace. More opportunities to shadow Engineers or other roles invovled in the SDLC would be beneficial but there doesn't seem to be much scope for this.

The residentials have the potential to be really useful but often they cover the basics of the prescribed learning. There are opportunities to sit professional exams but for the Java exam it's just a given that pretty much no one is in a position to sit it! Poor.

I came into the role with no sofware development experience and I am now in a position to help the team with supervision with the view to being self sufficient this year.

Yes

The benefits are second to none - 15% pension contribution, yearly pay rises, yearly bonus, flexible benefit pot, private medical insurance and staff mortgage rates. The future skills team are also very supportive of your development and you can go as far as you'd like as an Apprentice.

Find out about the Group values as these are really important to Lloyds. Relax and be yourself at the assessment day - I don't think there are wrong answers.