Software Engineering Apprentice Review

My day-to-day involves: Daily stand-up to discuss progress made the previous day, any blockers or other issues that need to be created on Jira. Then, designing, implementing, or testing features as required, while leasing with my team. Extensive use of GitHub is also required so that the team can work on multiple issues at the same time. Attending meetings, and reading/writing emails are also regular tasks.

As someone with limited coding knowledge before the apprenticeship, I have learnt a lot! I have developed proficiency in multiple programming languages (JS, Python, Java, Typescript), learnt to use databases, security principles and much more. I have also learnt a lot about the Agile methodology, as well as further developing soft skills such as presentation skills. There have been several opportunities to gain further experience in presenting, which I have appreciated.

I have really enjoyed the programme thus far. The initial 3 month bootcamp was great, and I have had regular time set aside to do OTJ. After the bootcamp, I had multiple choices for projects to go onto, and I've received a lot of support when needed, by my managers, team and other Sky employees.

The programme has been quite well structured, with regular lectures, tasks set at one-to-ones and time set aside for OTJ. I do think that too much time is dedicated to fixing people's project set ups in the lectures sometimes, as we are supposed to have this set up before the lecture starts. This can end up wasting a lot of time.

I received a lot of direct support in the form of regular check in sessions. Sky also run learning labs for soft skills which are quite useful (e.g. Speaking with Influence). I have also had some written feedback from managers/product owners, and am confident that I would receive additional support if I asked for it.

I have monthly one to ones with my coach where we set goals for the month and discuss my progress on my work portfolio. As a cohort, we have also had a couple of portfolio review sessions where we review each others' which I found helpful. I have received a lot of helpful insight into how to evidence KSBs, and insight into ares of improvement.

It has introduced me to Javascript and databases and many other concepts vital to my role. Most of what I have covered in the bootcamp and further modules have been designed for beginners, so it was a good base to start independent learning from (which is required daily). I mainly work with Python on my current project, which we didn't cover at all in the bootcamp.

There are regular early careers events to attend, however they have limited spaces and the tickets get reserved very quickly. There are other events such as showcase events and apprentice insight days. At Osterley there is also the Sky cinema which has shows on regularly. I have seen on the company Yammer that some groups do other events as well.

Yes

Sky has been a great company to work for thus far. I've been given a lot of support, time to learn by being put on educational projects and I've met a lot of great people. There's opportunities to work on some really interesting projects and to develop yourself as a software engineer and professional.

Some of the application process involves practical coding so I'd definitely recommend having some coding practice before those stages. Be yourself and don't be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions is super important, not only in the application process, but in general. Try not to get too stressed out if you are struggling and do your best!