Apprentice Software Developer Review

by Arup

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I have a daily team standup to discuss the previous day's work and the current day's goal. I work in an agile team so pick up tickets from the kanban board that are suited for my skillset but challenging.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Yes, plenty to learn every day while developing core programming paradigms. I've improved on my JavaScript and experienced using different frameworks for the first time in the workplace like React and KnexJs.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy my programme as I get a full hands-on experience in real projects. There are times when progress can be slow or I pick up a boring task but these are standard caveats of any job.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very well structured. The course follows a block-release model in which I have a week for studies after working for a few weeks. In that week, a module is taught and an assignment is released to work on during or after the training week.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

There is a buddy system at work to receive advice on generic technical questions, or more project focused concerns. The entire team is usually available for any concern, each with a different speciality.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

There is sufficient support during the module week. Emails may tend to be slow but there are peers that can be reached out to.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

It somewhat helps. There are some modules that are extremely relevant, related to programming which is what I do on a daily basis. Other modules cover theory which I may use less often. Some modules may not be used at all but is good general knowledge

6/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are plenty of extra-curricular activities to get involved in but this varies by the office. My office has a monthly social in a random location, there is a running team, there are language teams, and plenty more to look for.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Arup to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Perfect career route for someone in a similar position who is just starting out. Very inclusive environment, cultivates growth and challenges your skills.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Arup?

Be ready to learn in a hands-on way in a constantly changing environment