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Sunday 10 February 2013

Six Months On... The IT Apprentices

Peter, Sam and Steven (our IT Apprentices) have been with us for six months now…  here’s what they think about their time in St Andrews so far. 

Peter Woodbridge - Apprentice Web Developer


What I like about my job:  are all of the staff have been supportive and very welcoming, I have also enjoyed working with the web team as I'm always kept busy but never bored with the work that I have to do. 
What I don’t like about my job:  I honestly can’t think of any thing I don't like about working here. 
What I’ve learnt so far:  I have learned how to use basic HTML, how to co-operatively work within a team and I have also learned a lot in Microsoft Windows 7 and Cisco Networking. 
The support I’ve received so far:  I really enjoy being part of the web team as they are all very friendly, I have been supported     throughout the apprenticeship well and I have always been made to feel fully part of the team. 
Training from QA:  I passed both of the City and Guilds assessment's with relative ease. 
Career plans:  The short period of time that I have spent here has already made me want to pursue a career in IT.
 
Sam Foster - Apprentice Service Desk Analyst
What I like about my job:  I like how varied the job is.  Everyday I’m meeting new people and new problems!
What I don’t like about my job:  I can’t think of anything at the moment!
What I’ve learnt so far:  I could go on and on… so much! I think my communication skills have improved, along with my general        troubleshooting knowledge.
The support I’ve received so far:  All of the team are great.  They’ve sat down and taught me so much and are always happy to answer questions.  I really feel part of the team already.
Training from QA:  I’ve enjoyed the Cisco and Microsoft courses  - they’ve been fairly easy going, but realise that’s not even the        barebones of what I need to know. 
Career plans:  Although I’ve only been working in IT for a short time, I do feel this has helped to confirm that I want to pursue a career in IT. 
Steven Gonzalez - Apprentice Desktop Technician
What I like about my job:  I enjoy opening up the laptops/pcs to change a part, etc. 
What I don’t like about my job: tidying away cables after matriculation or waiting for data to transfer when setting up a new machine!
What I’ve learnt so far:  I’ve learned a lot about fixing hardware problems and my understanding of Windows 7 and networking has greatly improved.  I now know how to use a mac (never used one before) and how to service a variety of printers.
The support I’ve received so far:  I enjoy working with the team as you get a good sense of achievement when you have completed a task, e.g. matriculation.
Training from QA:  I have learned a lot from the Cisco and Microsoft courses.   Very interesting and a lot more to learn. 
Career plans:  This has confirmed I would like a career in IT—particularly in the hardware side of my role.     

 
About QA: 
QA are the lead apprenticeships provider on Microsoft’s ‘Get On’ pledge (announced by Alex Salmond last week) to create 2000 IT Modern Apprenticeships by 2016.

QA have just won 'Apprenticeship Programme of the Year 2013' from the Learning & Performance Institute for the second year running. 

I'm keen for us explore the possibilities of taking on more IT apprentices. 

 
Find out more here:

 


 

 









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