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NatWest Group

Software Developer Apprentice Review

at NatWest Group

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Software Engineering

Edinburgh

Review Submitted: March 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
4/5 - 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
I use different applications to update systems that will be used by stakeholders at my organization. I attend meetings, give updates and receive feedback on a daily basis.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I enjoy my programme a fair amount. At the end of the day "work is work" so it's not something I get excited about getting up for everyday for. However what really drives me is learning more and gaining as much knowledge as I can. I'd love to learn about every aspect of the organization and explore different fields.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have learned many new skills such as technical skills due to the field/role I am in. I have also developed my confidence and communication from interacting with co workers, asking questions, stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My apprenticeship itself if structured good. I know when I have to attend classes, when my work is due, and the learning resources and modules are clear and organized. At work, I am given different tasks. If I am need help I ask my colleagues. There is not a specific structure but that is due to the field (software engineering) I am in. It is easier to do tasks and learn as I go since there is a lot of complex technicality.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I'm grateful to say I receive sufficient amount of support from my employer. Everyone is hard working but chill and approachable. We work in teams so I communicate with my team members daily. I am able to request additional help if I need. This could be over teams chat or zoom meeting or I can always approach someone in the office for a quick chat. The work culture is pretty calm and relaxed. I requested for additional support in understanding some of the systems in the form of lecture style classes over zoom every few weeks, which not only helps me but the other software engineers on my team and allowing us to grow our knowledge together.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
I am not in regular contact with my training coach so it is hard to receive detailed feedback.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My modules have a strong emphasis on agile methodologies which is the method I use at work which gives me a deeper understanding of the processes at work.
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
We have an apprentice council that organises events such as networking events, Christmas/Holiday socials. We also have bi-weekly calls with updates for apprentices and allows us to ask any questions if needed.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend NatWest Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend mainly because of the work culture and the people. Everyone is respectful, relaxed and approachable while also being very motivated and hard working. Interacting with people from NatWest allows me to synchronise with them and also uphold those traits. The second reason would be NatWest values. The organization has a strong importance on their values and shows it through their services, products and actions.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NatWest Group?
Be yous authentic self!!! Your unique selling point is that there is no one like you. No one have the same exact experiences, skills, and communication style as you. Use your experiences to answer interview questions. Give your reflection - What did you learn?, What could you have done better? etc.
Use NatWest values to your advantage. Give examples and show how you have acquired those values through experiences.
In This Review
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