Degree Apprentice Software Engineer Review
at CGI
Degree Apprenticeship
Computer Science, Engineering
Gloucestershire
Review Submitted: May 2024
Overall Rating
4.5 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.2/5
-
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
For the last 8 months I have been working as a Software Engineer. I will attend a daily call with my team and discuss progress. Then. I work on a ticket, often with other members of my team. This has allowed me to learn faster through gaining hands-on experience.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
The program is very enjoyable, but very challenging. The people I work with have been very supportive in helping me learn the necessary skills to work on projects. However, the balance of university and work can be a struggle. Particularly at the beginning when you miss meetings while at university and have less knowledge of your project work.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt various technical and soft skills. I have been primarily working with AWS and have gained a lot of experience through this. I have also gained experience in testing and planning. Working on a team has improved my soft skills such as communication.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The work side of things couldn't be better. After learning the skills to be a functional member of the project, I have learnt so much. Balancing university and work was initially a struggle, but it is now simple. I receive a lot of support from my team and other CGI members.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive an incredible amount of support from my team, work friends and mentors. Through networking and meeting people at the office, I receive 1-2-1 and group mentoring for areas I am interested in developing my skills in.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The support is there, you just need to remember to seek it out when you are struggling. It can be a challenge in understanding the course and structure but through asking for help you receive a great amount of support.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
After you gain the skills to work on your project, the impact of university learning is lessened. It is still beneficial to have a better base of technical knowledge, however a few months in it feels that project-based learning is more impactful.
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
CGI run a sports and social club and offer subsidised or free events. I regularly attend a variety of events such as go karting, wine tasting and various performances. Anyone can organise events and at my office there is at least 1 per month.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend CGI to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend both the company and program. Despite it being hard work, there is a great deal of support. Through completing the degree apprenticeship, you will gain experience in a large company and have a debt-free qualification. I could not recommend it enough!
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to CGI?
Seek out work experience as many offices will offer it! Read about the company and be confident in the interview.
