Software engineer Review
at Vodafone
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Engineering
Manchester
Review Submitted: June 2023
Overall Rating
3.8 /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!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.4/5
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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:
3/5
I am responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software applications. On a day-to-day basis, this may involve writing code, performing debugging and troubleshooting, and developing automated tests. I also collaborate with other engineers, designers, and product owners to plan, prototype, implement, test, deploy, and maintain software solutions in an agile development environment. Additionally, I stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and tools to be able to provide the best solutions for the business.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my software engineering programme very much. I find it to be intellectually stimulating and rewarding as I am constantly learning new technologies and gaining a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of software engineering. The opportunity to work with talented engineers and developers also allows me to appreciate and learn more about the engineering process. Furthermore, I find it rewarding to be part of a team that creates products that can be used by end users to improve their quality of life.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes, I have learnt new skills and developed existing ones. I have learnt full stack web development, which includes HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and back-end programming languages such as Python and PHP. I have also learnt version control systems such as Git and SVN. Furthermore, I have developed existing skills such as database design and development, API development, and system debugging and performance tuning. Additionally, I have developed my problem-solving skills, communication skills, and team collaboration skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
My software engineering programme is very well organised and structured. Each week we have lectures to build our foundational knowledge and develop our problem-solving skills. We then engage in hands-on assignments and projects that require us to think critically and apply what we have learnt from the lectures. Throughout the course we are given assessments and evaluations to measure our knowledge and skills development. Additionally, we are regularly given feedback from our lecturers and peers that allows us to gain a better understanding of our strengths and weaknesses.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
They provide mentorship to ensure that I'm performing to my full potential. My colleagues are also extremely supportive and always willing to help with any questions I might have. My employer provides me with training and resources to ensure that I am constantly improving my skills and advancing my knowledge. Additionally, I am always encouraged to think up new ideas and provided with the opportunity to experiment and push the boundaries of what software engineering can do.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider gives me a lot of assistance while I pursue my certifications. I receive lectures, tutorials, and project guidance that are specific to my academic programme. My professors are highly receptive to my inquiries and are always ready to offer assistance if I need it. I also get evaluations of my performance from my teachers and fellow students. The institute's members are also always available to offer additional advice and support as needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My qualification through my training provider has given me the necessary knowledge and skills to perform well in my role as a software engineer. I have gained an understanding of how to decompose complex problems, design effective solutions, and develop reliable and secure software applications. Additionally, I have learnt how to collaborate with other engineers, designers, and product owners in order to produce the best possible results. Furthermore, I am able to use the latest software development tools and techniques to ensure that my code is efficient and effective. All of these skills and knowledge help me to perform better in my role.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Yes, there are extra-curricular activities that I can get involved in at my work. Some of these include after-work social gatherings, sports teams, and professional networking events. These activities provide an opportunity to socialize with my peers and develop relationships that can be beneficial for work. Additionally, these activities can help me build connections with other professionals or potential employers. I also enjoy taking part in the activities organized by my company, such as coding competitions and hackathons. These activities give me a chance to challenge myself, hone my skills, and work with other engineers to create innovative solutions.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Vodafone to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would definitely recommend Vodafone to a friend. Vodafone has a great company culture that is focused on collaboration and innovation. They provide an excellent level of support and resources to help developers perform at their best. Additionally, they are always looking for ways to improve their processes and technologies, allowing employees to work on the cutting edge of software engineering. The work environment is also open and relaxed, and the company supports social activities, which create a great atmosphere and allow employees to develop meaningful relationships.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Vodafone?
My advice to those applying to Vodafone would be to prepare well for the interview. Have an up-to-date knowledge of the latest technologies and coding trends, and come up with ideas on how to apply them to the problem that is being discussed. Additionally, be prepared to talk about any past experience that you have with software engineering and show that you can work in an agile development environment. Finally, demonstrate your passion for software engineering and your commitment to continuing your learning journey.
