Software Engineer Review

My role is split between live support and maintenance of existing services, as well as project based work where I mostly act as an independent test analyst. Responsibilities include conducting daily checks of services to ensure they are working optimally, responding to customer incidents, creating and completing test realisations, impacting for upcoming projects and supporting colleagues.

Since starting my apprenticeship in 2020 I have had the opportunity to complete several ISTQB testing qualifications including foundation tester, test analyst, test manager and automated test engineer. Prior to starting with Capgemini I had not even considered testing as a sector that I wanted to be involved with - this has given me a greater sense of where I want my career to go.

As I am now in the final year of my programme I have the time to reflect on almost 4 years of experience with it - from this I can say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the programme itself, I have found the modules within the degree programme to be mostly interesting.

From a Capgemini point of view, the organisation has worked tirelessly to ensure that the programme has been has well structured and smooth as possible. Any concerns that I (or my cohort colleagues) have raised have been handled swiftly and we have had support at every step of the way.

I am well supported by my employer in terms of my line manager and delivery manager understanding that I am studying alongside my day job, I am given the flexibility to manage my own capacity to ensure that I have study time as well as an understanding around deadlines. My employer has also listened to any concerns that have been raised around my programme and handled them swiftly.

I receive a lot of support in terms of flexibility and understanding in regards to my qualification. My line manager is actively involved in my regular reviews and encourages me to bring the skills from my training into my daily work. I am also given the freedom to take study time when needed.

Before starting this degree apprenticeship I had only self-taught knowledge and experience in regards to software engineering. Now that I am 4 years into the programme, the experience from the degree modules is evident in everything that I do. The degree programme has also allowed me to gain soft-skills which have been vital within the role.

There are plenty of networking events - some aimed specifically at degree programme colleagues - to get involved with. Each sector within Capgemini also has regular social events (bake sales, charity events, health and wellbeing sessions) as well as professional Tech based learning events. You are encouraged to be socially responsible and give back where possible.

Yes

As a mature student (30+) I have had many roles within my working life so far, and yet none of them have compared to the degree programme/apprenticeship that I am undertaking with Capgemini. I feel supported here, in an industry with like-minded people who are always striving towards the future.

Enjoy the experience. From application, to induction and beyond, come into this with a positive attitude as. Capgemini wants to see people succeed regardless of age or experience, this is what these programme opportunities are for. Reach out to people on LinkedIn for example who are currently on a degree apprenticeship for advice and insight too!