Solution Architect Review
at Halfords
Degree Apprenticeship
Information Technology
Redditch
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.6 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.6/5
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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:
5/5
As a Solution Architect at Halfords, I design and govern scalable, secure, and fit-for-purpose technology solutions. I align business needs with IT strategy, lead solution design across platforms like Power Platform and SAP, ensure architectural integrity, drive innovation, and support delivery through collaboration, governance, and technical leadership.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Being surrounded by like-minded people, supported by friendly tutors, and given the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone has been invaluable. I'm looking forward to learning more about other organisations, methodologies, and research.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Having recently started the apprenticeship, I’m enthusiastic about the new skills I’ll gain and the opportunities for growth ahead.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme appears to be well structured, although the variety of systems and the challenge of locating the right contacts and information can feel a little overwhelming at times.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My management team and apprenticeship coordinator have been very supportive. I’ve also had colleagues—despite being on different programmes—offer their support, recognising the time commitment and impact an apprenticeship can have.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
It’s still early days, but we’ve been consistently reminded about the availability of one-to-ones and the open offer of support to discuss anything. Wellbeing services are easily accessible, and the office hour drop-ins provide an additional layer of support.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I’m still getting to grips with the programme, but I believe it will broaden my perspective on many of the topics I encounter in my day-to-day role and, hopefully, help prepare me for more senior opportunities in the future.
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
As an architecture team, we often have social get-togethers that help strengthen our team dynamic. The organisation also has a couple of sporting events planned for later in the year, which I’m looking forward to.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Halfords to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Overall, Halfords has a lot to offer. It’s continuously evolving and, while always in a state of transformation, it generally feels like it’s moving in the right direction. There are plenty of opportunities and a genuinely positive atmosphere.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Halfords?
My top tip for new starters is to be yourself. Draw on your existing knowledge and experience, but be honest about where you’re at and what motivates you to improve. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow—it’s all part of the journey.
