Software Developer Review
at NatWest Group
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Finance
London
Review Submitted: February 2023
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.6/5
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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:
5/5
As a software developer apprentice, my day to day work includes sitting in meetings regarding new changes or feedback on projects. I assist my team with small changes in systems such as debugging or adding extras that will improve the way it works. I also work with other teams in order to integrate components.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I love my programme! It's flexible and allows me to explore so many different sectors. Everyday is so exciting and I really enjoy working on the projects. I didn't think I would like coding as much as I do, I get to learn so much everyday, not just coding, but also about finance, risk and systems.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
When I started my apprenticeship I had NO knowledge of programming. I barely knew how to code but now I've learnt 3 different languages. Python, SQL and Java. These are the most popular languages and I can use them in so many different ways. I've also developed my communication skills as I often set up meetings and have to connect with different people.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The course is very well structured itself, with clear content and guidance. However, sometimes the course providers can mention things late or last minute. Especially important things such as course training days. However on NatWests end, everything is very organised, they host a lot of calls and send emails out consistently to remind us.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My employer definitely supports us a lot. They always update us with calls and emails which I think is so helpful. My line manager is extremely helpful, she answers my messages super quickly and give me so much detail. The manager i'm training with is also super helpful, he gives me so much insight whenever I need to know anything more technical.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider does support me a lot however I do think they could provide more updates/reminders on specific parts of the training course. I like how it's easy to contact them on their website but I think maybe a direct chat line like MS teams would be more helpful to communicate with them.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification gives me all the coding skills I need to take part and support my team in projects. We mainly use SQL in my team so since learning that through my qualification I can actually do the tasks that are necessary and require coding. Also knowing the other languages help me if I was to need to do another task.
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
Yes, there's quite a few activities such as town hall events that happen quarterly. We also have been invited to tech events such as the level up summit which was amazing. I got to network with so many different companies as well as people in NatWest. There's also a variety of apprenticeship councils and groups.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend NatWest Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It's overall an amazing company that provides so much experience and opportunities to everyone. The apprentices are so diverse and come from all types of backgrounds, even if you have no experience there's something available. I'm really happy to be part of NatWest, they're extremely supportive, have great apprenticeships and an amazing team all around.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NatWest Group?
I would say to just bring your soft skills to the table. Everything else can be learnt on the job. Make sure to have an eager to learn attitude and show that you're genuinely interested in the company itself. Have an idea of the type of role you want and just go for it.
