Digital Degree Apprentice Review
at Northumbrian Water Group
Degree Apprenticeship
Computer Science
Durham
Review Submitted: May 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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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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
In my current placement within the product management team. I oversee Microsoft 365 products, engaging with stakeholders across various departments to understand their needs and challenges, and provide digital solutions to improve outdated processes. On a day-to-day basis, I design and implement solutions using M365 tools, manage projects, and coordinate with cross-functional teams. Additionally, I provide training and ongoing support to employees by monitoring the solutions implemented by me and the team. On friday, I attend university to work towards my BCs Digital Technology Solutions degree.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I'm enjoying my time on the apprenticeship programme. Everyone at NWL are very supportive, and if I need help with my university work or work in general, I can just ask. There are plenty of opportunities to excel in your career, like taking part in the innovation festival and meeting people from different areas of the business to further your knowledge. These experiences have been really beneficial and have helped me develop both professionally and personally.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
During my time at NWL, I have developed numerous skills and enhanced existing ones. I have significantly improved my efficiency in time management, consistently meeting project deadlines. My technical knowledge has expanded, not only in the systems I use but also in understanding the tools utilized across the company. Additionally, my public speaking skills have greatly improved; I have led several meetings and delivered presentations to showcase my work and explain my findings. Furthermore, I have enhanced my ability to work effectively in groups and have become more adept at taking initiative in solo tasks.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My experience with the apprenticeship programme has been very well organized. At the beginning, each department manager in IS provided an overview of their department and introduced their teams. We've had several team-building events, like spending a day at Kielder where we engaged in activities such as kayaking and axe throwing. University classes are scheduled every Friday, which helps break up the week nicely.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I've received a lot of support from my employer. I have a mentor within the team, and I have weekly meetings with my manager to discuss any challenges I'm facing or areas I'm particularly interested in, including upcoming projects. Whenever I'm stuck with anything, my team is always happy to help. This level of support has been incredibly valuable and has made my experience much more enjoyable and productive.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I've received a lot of support from different departments within IS while working towards my qualifications. For our first module, we had weekly meetings with a software engineer from the company who provided us with valuable insights for our assignments and helped us with our code. There are a number of people across the IS department that has provided me with a better knowledge of what I am doing at university
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My qualification through the training provider enhances my performance in my role. Many of the topics I study at university are directly relevant to the company's operations and my daily tasks. This knowledge allows me to complete work more efficiently and effectively. Additionally, the practical skills and theoretical understanding I gain from my coursework enable me to contribute more meaningfully to projects and problem-solving within the team.
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
At NWL, there are plenty of extra-curricular activities to get involved in. You have numerous opportunities to meet with stakeholders across the business, and they organize events for apprentices to connect, such as the trip to Kielder Reservoir. Additionally, you can sign up for roles like being an innovation ambassador at the innovation festival. There are also opportunities to attend career fairs and conferences, which are great for professional networking and development.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Northumbrian Water Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would definitely refer NWL to a friend because of the fantastic support and opportunities I've experienced during the apprenticeship programme. The company is incredibly organized, with clear introductions to each department and engaging team-building events like our trip to Kielder Reservoir. The support from mentors and colleagues has been exceptional, with regular meetings to discuss any challenges or interests, and a team that's always ready to help.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Northumbrian Water Group?
Research into Northumbrian water; what the company does, values, etc. Be confident in explaining the skills you bring and why you want to work for the company.
