Apprentice Software Engineer Review

My day starts at 8.30 and we kick off with a daily standup. This is a half hour session which allows us to collaborate on the work tasks we have been assigned and discuss various blockers and what we may need help with. The rest of the day is spent doing the task and joining meetings to align with collegues.

I have learnt the programming language Kotlin which we build code in on a day-to-day basis. I have also learnt the benefits of paired programming and shadowing tasks before diving into the deep end of the code as it truly helps to solidify your learning when you watch how someone else does it and then work on the task yourself.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme because each day is always so varied. We are give the opportunity to meet colleagues who are high up in the business and are always treated equally to others. Additionally, the one day off per week dedicated to apprenticeship learning gives me the space and capacity to learn the theoretical fundamentals.

The programme is incredibly well organised because there is a dedicated day off of corporate work where I attend the apprentice workshop and then can revise off of that material and work on my portfolio. The rest of the week allows me to apply what I have learnt to the business needs

Whenever I have a qualm or question, my employer is always on hand to address my needs. This makes my work life much more simpler as I do not have to stress about if I do not understand how something works for example. This means that all in all, I do not often have to ask much as I already know most of the company structure.

Our training provider is always on hand. We can message coaches directly and they will reply with apt information. They hold myriad helpful one-to-one sessions to help us with our EPA portfolio structure and to make sure that we are always on track. Our coaches are always reminding us to reach out to them is we require any help.

Sometimes the qualification teaching is not relevant as it is not taught in a language-agnostic manner e.g. the training provider teach in JavaScript but I am learning in Kotlin in my company. This can hinder things but I can also create more problem solving skills die to having to mentally translate between the languages.

There are many options with the youth team. For example, there is a tennis and rounders group chat and occasionally, networking events after office hours in London. Recently, there was a games night in the office where I got to meet some peers in person. There is always a different networking event on.

Yes

I would recommend Vodafone to a friend because of the impressive salary and the chance to meet and network with people all across the world. They often host panels with special guest speakers from across the glob to whom you can ask questions. Additionally e support individuals receive is unparalleled.

Definitely to be yourself. Vodafone is a very people-centric company and want to see your natural self. Additionally, when the interviewer asks for real-life examples, it does not need to be tech related (or to do with whatever role you are applying to), they just need to see how you deal with a situation in a professional manner with apt results.