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Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

software engineer Review

at Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Information Technology

Swindon, Wiltshire

Review Submitted: June 2023

Overall Rating

4 /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 - Overview of Role
4/5 - Skills Development
4/5 - 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
work with other engineers to design and develop software that meets the needs of our users. This includes everything from brainstorming new features to writing code to testing and debugging our work. I also collaborate with other teams, such as product managers, designers, and testers, to ensure that our software is successful. This involves communicating with other team members, sharing feedback, and working together to solve problems.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my program very much. I find the material to be challenging and interesting, and I appreciate the opportunity to learn from experienced and knowledgeable instructors. I also enjoy the opportunity to collaborate with other students on projects and to get feedback on my work. The program is well-designed and provides a good foundation in software engineering. I am confident that the skills I am learning will be valuable in my future career.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have learned how to use a new programming language, Python. This has allowed me to work on a wider range of projects and has made me a more versatile engineer. I have developed my skills in data analysis. This has allowed me to better understand the data that I work with and to make more informed decisions.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My program is well-organized and structured. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in software engineering, and the courses are well-aligned with the industry standards. The program also offers a variety of opportunities for hands-on learning, such as internships and capstone projects. There are always some things that could be improved. For example, I would like to see more opportunities for international students. I would also like to see more opportunities for students to get involved in research.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer. My manager is always available to answer questions and provide guidance. I also have access to a team of experts who can help me with specific technical challenges. My employer also provides me with a variety of resources, such as training, conferences, and mentorship programs.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider employs experienced instructors who are experts in their field. They are passionate about teaching and they are always available to answer questions and provide guidance. I also get access to a learning management system (LMS) that contains all of the course materials, including lectures, readings, and assignments. The LMS also allows me to communicate with my instructors and classmates.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The qualification has given me a strong foundation in the core concepts of software engineering, such as data structures, algorithms, and software design. This knowledge has helped me to understand the challenges of software development and to develop effective solutions.They have given me the opportunity to network with other software engineers. This network has been invaluable in my career, as it has allowed me to learn from others, share my knowledge, and find new opportunities.
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
There are many opportunities to socialize with your colleagues outside of work. For example, my company may have a sports team, a book club, or a hiking group. You can also attend company-sponsored events, such as holiday parties or happy hours. There are many professional networking events that you can attend to meet other professionals in your field. This is a great way to learn about new opportunities, make connections, and build your professional network.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I would recommend the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) to a friend. STFC is a leading UK research organization that supports research in astronomy, particle physics, nuclear physics, and space science. It operates world-class research facilities, such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and the European Space Agency's (ESA) Herschel Space Observatory. STFC also provides funding for research projects at universities and other research institutions.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)?
Make sure you understand STFC's mission, vision, and values. You should also research the specific role you are applying for and the department or group you would be working in. In your application, be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the role you are applying for. You can do this by including a CV, cover letter, and any other supporting documents that are requested.
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