Cyber Security Apprentice Review
at Sky
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Information Technology
Osterley
Review Submitted: March 2022
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
5/5
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Skills Development
3.6/5
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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
Day-to-day can vary massively but you get loads of opportunities at Sky and are given the ability to get involved in loads of exciting projects to expand your learning but also give your input. Getting hands on experience of using industry-leading security tools and services to ensure Sky stay secure from malicious actors.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my programme massively with the combination of gaining a qualification in a field I find really interesting but also am able to get fully involved in the culture and experiences that working for Sky has to offer. Team social events, networking with colleagues from across the group and overseas etc.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I've learnt loads of new skills alongside my professional qualification we are obtaining but also get given the opportunity to develop our "soft skills" of working as a team and with our line managers. But additionally get given the opportunity to complete training alongside our qualification on how to use security tools and platforms etc.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
2/5
The programme started off a bit rocky and made it difficult to originally start the programme and get going. But once our concerns were voiced over the organisation and structure of the programme Estio greatly improved. Sky's Early Careers team also assisted us in making sure we are happy with our experience and how it is being led by the provider.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
The support from Sky is great, everyone is very open to supporting when you have questions, concerns or ideas. We are given a dedicated early careers partner who we can contact with any queries but also have regular monthly drop-in calls to discuss our progress and voice any issues we may be experiencing so they can help.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The training provider provides a PMC (Progress Management Coordinator) who is there to support you and help you ensure you are completing your coursework on time, earning your off the job hours and make you ready for your end point assessment. You have 4 weekly calls with the PMC and then 6-week calls with the PMC and your Employer
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The qualification provides you with a lot of theory and can help easily from a technical perspective as you are brought up to speed on all the key foundation knowledge that you should know. But there is a lot of learning that is not covered by the apprenticeship that you need to learn, so it can help you in your role in one aspect but not in others.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Sky have a really good culture and social life opportunities for outside of the working day and life. Theres a dedicated Emerging Talent network for all the Graduates and apprentices to socialise and network but also loads of other networks and activities are put on by Sky all the time. Summer parties, christmas etc.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Sky to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Sky because it is a really great employer especially for when you are just starting your career in an apprenticeship. The culture is really relaxed and supportive with everyone being very welcoming no matter your role or who you are. But also they really invest in their people ensuring Sky is a great place to work.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Sky?
As cheesy as it may sound I would just advise any applying to truly be yourself especially when it comes to interviews or assessment centres. Sky are looking at you as an individual, how you align to the company and who you are as a person. They don't expect you to know everything but you should have an interest in the role and some knowledge of what Sky do.
