Software Engineering Apprentice Review
at KPMG
Degree Apprenticeship
Information Technology
London
Review Submitted: March 2023
Overall Rating
3.2 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
2.2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I am a software engineering apprentice, my daily tasks mainly entail working with front-end languages like javascript to match my projects service to the provided wireframes. As an apprentice, part of my daily routine is to attend a standup, which discusses what you did yesterday, what you will do today and what project priorities are for that day. Additionally, I review Pull Requests (other developers code) to make sure it is aligned with expectations and standards.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy my programme, it is an excellent opportunity to meet new people and network. Furthermore, on my apprenticeship we have constant opportunities to take up extra training opportunities and are always encouraged to learn more and become active in many parts of the company (such as organising socials). The individuals I work with are all very supportive and happy to help.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I previously had no coding background, this has resulted in me having endless opportunities to expand my knowledge. I have learnt a lot over my apprenticeship, especially in relation to computers, ways of working and coding standards. Additionally, the apprenticeship has been fundamental in developing personable traits such as public speaking and confidence through presentations and networking events
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
the structure of my apprenticeship has been let down due to the partnered university. This has had lots of turnover and consequently resulted in a large amount of uncertainty within my cohorts and many pieces of information falling through the cracks. The structure within the company is improving but had initially not been fully thought out.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My employer is very supportive of knowledge gaps. All individuals i work with make time to accommodate for any questions and we also have group knowledge sharing sessions within our team to go over any new issues which are confusing. Furthermore, we get study leave from work for 2 days during university examinations.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
The training provider for my apprenticeship has been lacking for the first 2 years of my apprenticeship, not providing much support or insight into any expectations or where to go for help. This is getting better due to a new hire who is trying to sort out the previously unpractical system
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
1/5
The training I receive from my training provider does not really correlate to the work I do for the company. Often there is no similarity or overlap with either of these contents. This is remarkably unhelpful as it highlights the workload and splits them completely rather than using one to further the other.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are some social events at work, but I found that these were infrequent and untargeted so I helped establish a committee of apprentices at my work who organise self funded (funded by apprentice attendees) socials to ensure that group morale is high and people are feeling included. However, I do feel like my company offers some sports teams and networking events but these are not sufficiently promoted
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend KPMG to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I have really enjoyed my time at this company and have met many lovely people who have helped me grow and develop both professionally and in character. The individuals I have met here are all very kind and easy to get along with, additionally, the work atmosphere is not heavily intense but is instead supportive
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to KPMG?
Place a focus on your character, I feel that this is something KPMG really considers to ensure new employees will fit in and help maintain the supportive environment. I would also not worry too much already having qualifications but instead show the ways you have expressed interest in your area, KPMG offers many training programs and incentives so I believe that passion is an important aspect to them.
