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Higherin
Department for Work and Pensions

Infrastructure Engineer Apprentice Review

at Department for Work and Pensions

Degree Apprenticeship

Information Technology

Manchester

Review Submitted: February 2025

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 - Overview of Role
5/5 - Skills Development
3.2/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
Manage the estate's internet and internal application access and the vendor relationship who provides the solution. Provide 3rd line support for incidents as well as consultation and advice on how to connect new applications via the solution.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The program is enjoyable albeit challenging with there being little respite between modules. The work element and practical application of any knowledge learnt is a particular highlight. The provider has not been the greatest and the experience of modules is very dependant on the standard of the tutor which is very varied.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Learnt networking skills along with large swathes of IT terminology. I've also learnt about IT estate management, service management as well as incident management. I've also developed skills using a variety of software solutions and programming languages.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
2/5
The provider has provided a clear structure that is easy to follow, however their organisation sometimes leaves things to be desired. Communication is sporadic and often unclear. Decisions are sometimes made without consultation.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I couldn't ask for much more support from my employer. They give me as much time as I need, well above the minimum required. I've spoken to previous apprentices as well as others doing a similar course and have support for my health and wellbeing as well as ensuring I can keep my work life balance.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Meetings every 2 months with a coach although my coach has changed several times in less than 2 years meaning a lack of continuity and continual need to adjust to new ways of working. There is plenty of support available from the academic team with regular workshops and one on one sessions. There's also a welfare team available if needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I've learnt so much about IT that I didn't before that its giving me a firm basis for my future career. Some modules have been more helpful than others in helping develop applicable knowledge or skills.
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
Yes, although sometimes the challenge is knowing where to look. There are clubs to join although dependent on area, some are more active than others.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Department for Work and Pensions to a friend?
Yes
Why?
They're a very good employer who have a modern way of working. You receive good compensation and plenty of support if studying. There's a continual focus on development and helping you become the employee you want to be in the role you want.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Department for Work and Pensions?
Just focus on key skills, including transferable ones. Experience is a bonus, not a necessity, so as long as you can evidence that you have skills to do the job then you'll stand yourself in good stead. Don't worry about your age if going for an apprenticeship its not just for the young!
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