Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Information Technology
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: May 2024
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!
4/5
-
Overview of Role
3/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
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
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
Python - from complete beginner to lower intermediate, completed AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification, stakeholder management, presentation skills
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is structured in 8 month rotations where apprentices take the initiative to look for teams to rotate into. This is great for exposure as you can experience many areas of the business in a short period of time. However, 8 months can feel like a short amount of time and can feel like you are only able to gain a surface level understanding/skill set. Rotations can be extended but this will impact future rotation timings.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Support is received from a buddy (apprentice in the year above on the same course) and a mentor (apprentice who has graduated from the same course the year you begin). Support is also given by your Line Manager, and often a team specific mentor.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
University is virtual and self-led. Professors are usually prompt to respond to questions via email and meetings can be arranged.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
2/5
Business related subjects are not usually helpful as they are either too generic or there is a standardised way of working internally that makes the module learnings irrelevant. The technical modules were useful (such as Python) as the university provided resources for optional learning beyond the module material.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The rotational scheme has been helpful in helping shape my career and understand what I want (and don't want) from a future role. I have been able to explore my interests, expand my network, and discover roles that I previously didn't know existed. There is a large support network available also to help guide apprentices through the scheme.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Interviewers are largely looking for a willingness to learn - providing examples of times you have learnt a new skill, worked collaboratively, and dealt successfully with adversity will help your application.
