Software Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

I spend approximately every 5 weeks at Ada College studying for my degree. Otherwise, I am working full time as a full stack software engineer and am learning multiple programming languages such as HTML, JavaScript, CSS and C#. Occasionally, the company pays for me to go to one of the London offices to network with people and learn new skills.

Yes, I have learnt lots of programming languages, such as HTML, JavaScript, CSS, C# and TypeScript. I have also learnt lots about being agile when developing software, as well as how to thoroughly test software. I have also been able to improve my public speaking skills by doing presentations in front of potential applicants for our apprenticeship.

I enjoy the programme a lot. The work is varied and I am constantly learning new things each day, and am also empowered to develop my skills with plenty of opportunities given to me, such as ambassador events. Some people also weren't enjoying the work they were doing in their team, and were able to switch teams to do something else with no questions asked.

The programme is very well structured. We have large blocks consisting of around six weeks of working in the office, followed by a one week block where we study for our degree. We are also allotted time during the working week where we can work on our coursework for the degree. However, between my coursework and the degree work, the workload can get very high.

There is lots of support, and there is always someone to talk to if I am struggling. Everyone is assigned a career coach where we can tell them any concerns we might have about work. We are also assigned buddies, where we can ask them more general questions, such as where to submit expenses when we go to another office.

There is a lot of support. We have quarterly meetings with a member from Ada College where we can talk about how we are getting on, what we are enjoying, and what we are struggling with in regards to the learning. The lectures are delivered to a high standard too.

The work we do at the college is very applicable to the work we do in the office. For example, we have recently been learning all about testing software at Ada College, and I will use these new skills in the workplace when testing my software as I continue my journey as a software engineer.

Yes, there are sports teams that employees may join. For example, the Manchester office has their own football team. There are also lots of networks for employees, such as Shine network, which is the company's community for queer people. Other networks include the faith networks, DAWN (Disability AWareness Network), and the Black Network. However, I do wish there were some more clubs in the office itself.

Yes

We have an excellent work life balance and we are able to work flexibly. The work itself is very enjoyable and the pay is quite good too. Employees are given many opportunities to grow and there is a clear path I can take where I can climb the corporate ladder.

Make sure you do your research at the company! Many applicants do not talk about the lines of service (e.g. audit, consulting, tax etc.) which can lead to rejection. Also, do not try to take control of the assessment centre, everyone should be given an equal chance to talk. If someone is being quiet, try bringing them into the conversation so they can provide their opinion. It makes you look like more of a team player.