Apprentice Software Technician Review
at Arm
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Computer Science
Manchester
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4 /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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
3.8/5
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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
I work as a software engineer in a DevOps-focused team, supporting CI/CD pipelines for a shared engineering codebase. My day-to-day work includes developing Python automation, troubleshooting build and test issues, and supporting developers with Git workflows and virtual environments. I also monitor and present test results using Dynatrace to help improve system visibility and reliability.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I’ve really enjoyed my programme overall. I find the work interesting, particularly problem-solving and thinking about systems and architecture. I value the autonomy I’ve had, as well as access to tools and resources that have supported my learning.
While some processes can be challenging in a large organisation, I understand the reasons behind them and have still found the environment effective overall. I’ve also appreciated the support from colleagues and the organisation, particularly during some difficult personal periods.
While some processes can be challenging in a large organisation, I understand the reasons behind them and have still found the environment effective overall. I’ve also appreciated the support from colleagues and the organisation, particularly during some difficult personal periods.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I’ve developed both technical and professional skills during the programme. I transitioned from an Agile coaching role into a hands-on development environment, building experience with programming, CI/CD tools, and automation. I’ve also strengthened my teamwork, problem-solving, and ability to support and improve development practices. I’ve learned a lot from both my team and the wider apprentice community.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme was relatively flexible and self-directed in its structure. Much of the learning was self-led, with online content completed independently in preparation for periodic classroom sessions. While I sometimes found the lack of structure challenging, I also appreciated the autonomy and trust it gave me to manage my own time and learning.
This flexibility was particularly valuable when balancing the programme alongside personal circumstances, and it allowed me to progress in a way that worked for me. I also recognise that this style may not suit everyone, as it requires a high level of self-motivation and organisation.
This flexibility was particularly valuable when balancing the programme alongside personal circumstances, and it allowed me to progress in a way that worked for me. I also recognise that this style may not suit everyone, as it requires a high level of self-motivation and organisation.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
Overall, I received good support from my employer, particularly in terms of flexibility and wellbeing. I was well supported during challenging personal periods and given the space I needed. Day-to-day support was more mixed, as my assigned buddy was not in a technically relevant role for me, but I built strong informal support from colleagues. I also benefited from a flexible working environment and internal support networks.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
The level of support from the training provider was mixed. I found the SEN support particularly valuable—the sessions were supportive and gave me space to discuss challenges and build strategies, which had a positive impact on my overall experience.
In contrast, I found the guidance around the core programme less structured. At times it felt unclear what I should be focusing on, with limited direction in terms of specific targets or deadlines. More structured guidance would have helped me feel more confident in my progress.
In contrast, I found the guidance around the core programme less structured. At times it felt unclear what I should be focusing on, with limited direction in terms of specific targets or deadlines. More structured guidance would have helped me feel more confident in my progress.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Most of my development has come from hands-on experience in the role, but the qualification has complemented this by exposing me to a wider range of tools and practices beyond my immediate team. This broader perspective has helped me perform more effectively in my role.
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
Yes, there are plenty of extra-curricular activities, including early careers socials, site events, and informal groups like board games, climbing, and hiking. I’ve particularly enjoyed the ukulele club, which has been a great way to learn something new and connect with colleagues. There are also exercise classes and regular social meetups, both in-person and remote. In addition, there are opportunities to attend the annual Arm apprentice conference, as well as visit partner organisations and external conferences, which support both networking and professional development.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Arm to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I would recommend Arm to a friend. It has a strong and positive culture, with a real emphasis on collaboration, empathy, and hiring great people. From my perspective, the working environment supports both personal and professional growth, with plenty of opportunities to learn and develop.
The work itself is interesting and varied, and the scope of the industry means there are many directions you can explore. I’ve also found the company to be supportive and fair in terms of how it treats its employees, which contributes to an overall positive experience.
The work itself is interesting and varied, and the scope of the industry means there are many directions you can explore. I’ve also found the company to be supportive and fair in terms of how it treats its employees, which contributes to an overall positive experience.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Arm?
Be yourself and stay curious. Showing genuine interest in learning and problem-solving goes a long way. It’s also worth sharing your passions, whether that’s personal projects, hobbies, or areas of interest—people at Arm are genuinely interested in what motivates you, not just your technical skills.
