Software Tester Review

I am a software tester who performs testing on Mortgages systems and tech for Barclays bank. I work mainly in automation testing which includes the use of programming skills to automate tests for speed and efficiency. I work in an agile environment and get involved with testing from an early stage and colloborate with people from other teams such as Project managers, Business Analysts and Developers.

I have learned lots of new skills since starting my role. I have learned the Java programming language basics and I am able to write scripts for automation tests in an IDE (Integrated development environment), I have developed my communication skills as I can now confidently contribute to daily stand up meetings. I am able to manage my workload and diary better now that I work more independently.

I really enjoy my programme. The opportunity to learn new skills to further my career whilst also doing my job role is great. I enjoy working with colleagues from around the globe and learning and growing with others on the programme. Its fantastic to get a chance to work in an sector which I am so passionate about which would have been difficult without the apprenticeship opportunity.

The programme is very well structured and is designed to align my job role with learning. I am able to spend 1 day a week focusing on learning and gaining new skills which is really important coming from a non technical background. We have a selection of courses we attend in person and gives us the chance to earn real world qualifications alongside the apprenticeship.

My employer has been really supportive since joining my new team with the apprenticeship. They understand that my technical skills need to be focused on and the importance of learning on the job. They give me the time I need to develop my skills and really support me with any issues I have.

My training provider gives me lots of support in preparation for the qualifications. Before my course, my learning mentor will send pre learning material weeks in advance to go through before the course begins. There is options to attend courses and take exams remotely or in person which is great.

The qualifications really help me perform better in my role as they are very relatable to the work I do daily for my employer. The courses and qualifications are really suitable for beginners or non technical people to and there is lots of learning to go through before we take the exams.

At my place of work there is lots of activities and events on offer to participate in. We have lots of sports clubs such as football, tennis, badminton and golf. We also have clubs for gaming, chess and other hobbies. The site will hold special events such as networking lunches to get to know other colleagues in different roles and departments.

Yes

Barclays is a great place to work and grow. The company really puts effort in to their staff and helps them develop and will guide them with career choices and paths. I was able to transition in to a technology role with an apprenticeship and Barclays have been so supportive of this and given me real opportunities I thought would be impossible.

I would say make sure you be yourself when applying for a job in Barclays as the company really enjoys diverse workforce and people bringing themselves to their roles. I would recommend anyone to look up the Barclays Mindset and Values online which gives insight in the way of working at Barclays and how we put colleagues and customers at the forefront of everything we do