Contract Enablement Apprentice Review
at Softcat
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Business Operations, Information Technology, Sales
Manchester
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
5 /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
5/5
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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
I work in Contracts Enablement at Softcat, where I support the business by making sure contracts, frameworks and processes run smoothly. Day to day, my role is a mix of managing data, supporting tenders and frameworks, and building smarter ways of working through automation to cut down manual effort. I really enjoy the problem-solving side of the role and being able to improve how things are done. Softcat’s a great place to learn, develop and feel genuinely supported while doing meaningful work!
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy my apprenticeship programme. It’s given me the chance to learn while doing a genuine role that adds value to the business, rather than just studying in isolation. I like that I’m trusted with real responsibility, supported by my team, and encouraged to develop new skills every day. The mix of on the job learning and formal training suits me well, and I feel like I’m building a strong foundation for my future at Softcat!
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, I’ve definitely learnt new skills and developed existing ones through my apprenticeship. I’ve built up strong practical skills around data handling, attention to detail and problem solving, as well as improving my confidence, communication and time management. I’ve also developed my technical skills by using tools like Excel and Power Automate to make processes more efficient, which has helped me understand how my work adds real value to the business.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My programme is well organised and clearly structured. I’ve got a good balance between on the job learning and off the job training, with clear expectations of what I need to complete and when. I feel supported by my team, my manager and my skills coach, and I always know where to go if I need guidance. Overall, the structure keeps me on track while still giving me flexibility to learn and develop in my role.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer. My team and manager are always approachable and willing to help, whether that’s with day to day tasks, learning new skills or balancing my apprenticeship work. I’m encouraged to ask questions, try things out and develop at my own pace, which makes a big difference. Overall, I feel genuinely supported and valued as an apprentice at Softcat.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive strong support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. My skills coach is always available to offer guidance, feedback and reassurance, and keeps me on track with clear targets and regular check ins. The support feels tailored to me, which really helps me stay motivated and confident as I progress through my apprenticeship.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel my qualification helps me perform much better in my role. What I’m learning directly links to the work I do day to day, so I can apply new knowledge straight away rather than it just being theory. It’s helped me understand the wider business context of my role, improve how I approach tasks, and build confidence in the decisions I make 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.)
5/5
Yes, there are plenty of extra curricular activities to get involved in at Softcat. There’s a strong social side to the company, with regular team events, social activities and opportunities to get involved in sports and wellbeing initiatives. There are also professional networking events and company wide activities that make it easy to meet new people and feel part of the wider Softcat community, which I really enjoy!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Softcat to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I’d definitely recommend Softcat to a friend. It’s a great place to work, especially as an apprentice, because you’re trusted with real responsibility but also genuinely supported to learn and develop. The culture is positive, welcoming and people focused, and there are loads of opportunities to build skills, get involved and progress while enjoying the work you do.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Softcat?
I’d say be yourself, show enthusiasm and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Softcat values personality, attitude and willingness to learn just as much as experience. If you’re genuinely interested, open to developing your skills and happy to get involved, you’ll fit in really well and get a lot out of the opportunity.
