IT Apprentice Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6/10

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

I manage brand assets, edit videos, and interact with different communications teams to keep colleagues compliant and ensure AstraZeneca's reputation is upheld

7/10

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

I'm better at time management and communication skills. I have also developed technical skills like programming and working with different enterprise wide tools

7/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I've enjoyed the programme somewhat. My managers have all been genuinely nice people and some of the benefits that come with the job, such as medical benefits, or share incentive have been beneficial

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme has been reasonably well organised. I like the structure of 5 roughly 8 month rotations to ensure you gain a varied range of experiences in the workplace. I think there are enough teams available to manage your progress through the programme even if often working behind the scenes

8/10

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

There is a reasonable amount of support throughout the programme. My managers have all been incredibly supportive towards any issues I have had. There is no pastoral care team which is a huge issue

6/10

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

There is a decent amount of support from MMU. They provide a skills coach who helps you complete the apprenticeship side of the degree. He has helped me pass some aspects of the degree but has been indifferent towards some of my personal issues

5/10

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

It has helped me somewhat towards my role. In earlier rotations it has helped me understand business management and the technology lifecycle. In later years it can be difficult, as I have to try and relate projects to my degree, even If not that relevant to my current role. This is the nature of such a varied apprenticeship though

8/10

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.)

I believe these sorts of activities such as sports or social activities are available even if I have only got involved with some after work meet ups and networking events.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The people were all nice and genuine. Some of my friends are more interested in working in IT than me, and more interested in working in a very corporate environment. This was a bit much for me at age 18 and I only now feel as a 22 year old that I'm ready for this sort of workplace

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

Enjoy your time, and try to get as many varied experiences as possible. Meet as many people as you can and don't be afraid to bring your unique skills to the workplace