EDAS Software Engineer Review

Each role depends on current placements, each of which lasting around 8 months. These will carry across the business and sites ranging from Warton and Samlesbury. Roles will link from writing code from scratch, editing existing code, using software applications and ensuring all work is up to standard and copyrighted.

I was completely new to software when joining this apprenticeship, other than basic Office applications I knew nothing about programming languages or any software based applications. I have since work on both C++ and Ada during day to day work as well as using a multitude of high end software applications and become prolific in each. I have learnt how to edit and amend code as well as write my own based on specifications and requirements handed to me.

As stated before, being new to programming the course at first felt extremely daunting but over the last few months each block has been broken into steps with helpful and understand staff members helping me learn all the basics before progressing in more complex code. I have felt comfortable and looked after during each placement.

The programme consists of a 4-year course at UCLan studying a degree in Software Engineering. A 3-year course completing a Level 4 Diploma in Software Engineering consisting of Knowledge Questions and Evidence packs where you have to show where yo have hit each competency. Lastly, you are expected to carry out stretch assignments such as volunteering in the community and setting up recruitment events.

During your apprenticeship you have constant contact with your placement manager who gives you dayto day software work, your Skill Coach who aids in your completion on the Level 4 and ensuring you're on track with your degree and the apprentice manager. It consists of 10 Weekly Learner Progression reviews but more frequent contact can be arranged based on the individuals needs and preference.

UCLan can be up and down in terms of support with some lecturers being incredible in aiding in not just the work and assignments but also information that will help your growing career or just keen spots of interests. Other can be terrible, with little Lab planning and unhelpful feedback, although of this BAE is good as an intermediary to stick up for the apprentices where the UCLan has done something unfair or is expecting unrealistic goals with the lack of good teaching.

With my lack of software knowledge coming into this role I ofund the courses at uni, especially first year to be extremely useful, with various moments finding the work I'm being tasked with relating in one way or another which what was completed in my university units. Things such as Programming and Systems Analysis have a direct link to day to day work and are vital for improving your role.

There are many extra-curricular activities to get involved with both at office in BAE Warton/Samlesbury such as sports teams and social clubs. This also extends to university as UCLan has a strong number of clubs open to any to join. This is worth doing to help broaden your horizons and learn more at a young age.

Yes

- Strong and Useful Qualifications - Training that is relevant and will help in a growing career in software. - Networks worth a lifetime, working with trained engineers who have knowledge you wouldn't learn in uni. - High Salary. - Safe and Enjoyable Work Environment. - Healthy habits within the workplace including socialising and extra curricular activities.

- Don't worry about a lack of expirence in the chosen apprentice sector, they will teach you everything from scratch. Even if you are already an expert they will fin you challenging and achievable work. - Do your research of the company to understand their values and responsibilities (These are important for recruitment).