Software Engineering Apprentice Review
at CACI
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Software Engineering
Bristol
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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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
My role consists of a daily standup meeting, where my team and myself explain how much progress we have done on a task and whether we have any barriers. I split my time 50% working on a task for a component I am developing on my team, and the other half of my time is spent on writing up evidence of the work I do in the workplace to meet skills and behaviour targets.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy my programme, especially because it gives me the chance to grow as a software engineer in a hands-on way. I like being able to apply what I'm learning directly to real projects, making everything feel more meaningful and relevant. I have enjoyed exploring different technologies, solving complex problems and seeing my code actually being used. It has also been great to learn from more experienced developers and get feedback that helps me improve.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed several skills, including several different programming languages, soft skills and public speaking by regularly demonstrating my work.
Moving on to a client project, I have learned that communication and collaboration are key. I have gained valuable experience in adapting to different workflows and ensuring my contributions align with the boarder goals of the project. I have also learned a little about Angular programming language by code reviewing other apprentices who have used it, which has helped me understand its structure and best practices, even without having used it extensively myself.
Moving on to a client project, I have learned that communication and collaboration are key. I have gained valuable experience in adapting to different workflows and ensuring my contributions align with the boarder goals of the project. I have also learned a little about Angular programming language by code reviewing other apprentices who have used it, which has helped me understand its structure and best practices, even without having used it extensively myself.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Overall, the structure of my programme is fairly well organised, with clear goals and learning opportunities throughout. However, it can sometimes be challenging to get timely feedback or mentoring on my work. The team members who are capable of code reviewing or mentoring are often quite busy, and there is a lack of resources for those who are available at the time, especially since they would need to get familiar with the more complex API I have been using, while also supporting an intern and managing their own workload. That said, we usually manage to organise things and find time to go through the work together when everyone is availability lines up, and I appreciate the effort the team puts in despite their busy schedules.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I feel supported by my employer overall. They have given me the space to grow and develop as a software engineer, and I have had access to learning resources and opportunities. When I need help, there is support available. The feedback and help I have previously received has been excellent, with constructive feedback, highlighting areas for improvement. I have also been given valuable guidance when needed.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The support I have received by my training provider has been excellent. They have provided valuable guidance and learning resources when I needed. The feedback I have received has been great and highly constructive, highlighting areas to improve on.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification through college definitely supports my role, especially when it comes to understanding the fundamentals of software development. Topics like programming principles and Agile practices have all helped me feel more confident in the work I do. The college content gives me a solid foundation to build from, helping reinforce best practices and gives me context for what I'm learning on the job.
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
I regularly attend update meetings, knowledge forums and early careers, keeping myself up-to-date with the latest information within the company and receiving valuable training, developing my skills in communication and teamwork. Early careers also include a social evening at the end of the training session which I attend. There are numerous activities which everyone can get involved in, that occur throughout the year.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend CACI to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend this to a friend because it is a great way to gain real-world experience while developing skills as a software engineer. You get to work on actual projects, learn from experience developers and build a portfolio of work. It's a good balance between hands-on learning and structured education through college. While it can be challenging at times, especially when juggling work and study, the experience you gain is invaluable and really sets you up for a future in tech.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to CACI?
Be open to feedback and don't be afraid to ask questions. It is best to stay organised, balancing time between college work and job responsibilities.
