Software Engineering Apprentice Review

My morning start with a daily stand up where I share the progress of the work I am doing and whether I need more work/help. Then I spend most of my day coding in TypeScript/React/Next Js. I sometimes do peer reviews on code to check if it meets the tasks description.

My program on the university end could be more organised. This is currently being improved. Sometimes guidance can be late from the university in terms of timetables/reviews. The work side of my program is structured in that I am currently in a project full-time and know what my expectations are.

I receive a lot of support. We have monthly calls to check if we have any queries and concerns about the program and if I am stuck with a programming task my team is always readily available to help me and walk me through it. My performance manager is highly approachable and we have regular monthly conversations. My employer has encouraged me to take on certifications and has provided the training materials and facilities to do this.

My training provider could be more supportive in terms of response time and setting clear guidelines for support, though they are starting to improve on this. We have access to all the campus facilities and online resources that regular students do. This is beneficial to me as I can use the library resources to support my learning.

I feel like it provides the theory behind some of the concepts I learn at work. However, I find that university degrees can be outdated in terms of the technologies we use. Though it still provides the fundamentals I needs to be successful in my role. Some of my modules align with work (work-based modules) whilst others do not.

Yes

It is a great start to anyones career. You are treated like an employee and get to do work that aligns with your role. I have been on several projects and have learnt a lot. I also get to do a lot of volunteering and have a lot of flexibility in my role. The people are great too!