An insight into our Software Testing Academy

12 months ago we had our first ever Software Testing Academy employees walk through the revolving doors of the bet365 Stoke on Trent offices.

?They were to join a new programme aimed at developing individuals technical skills equipping them with the knowledge needed to start a successful career in Software Testing.

?Our Software Testers are responsible for testing enhancements and changes to our software to the highest levels of quality and accuracy. Essentially; before our code gets to our Customers we test to make sure that it is running smoothly and efficiently and is fit for purpose.

?Our Academy members came from all different career and educational backgrounds. Working in the technology industry, no matter what path you take, means you will be constantly learning. As such we hired people based on their soft skills, general aptitude and desire to learn, rather than technical knowledge.

?The academy members moved through a planned training programme introducing them to the different teams, tools and the technologies we use. We are delighted to announce that 12 months on all five members passed the Academy and have been offered and accepted full time permanent positions!

?We caught up with the members of the Academy to find out about their experiences so far and hopefully their answers can give some insight into whether or not an Academy could be right for you!

?Tell us a bit about the Academy:

?“The academy is a fantastic opportunity. It offers a great introduction and comprehensive training program in order to successfully be signed off as a tester. It is challenging and requires a lot of hard work (not just from the candidates but also from the trainers and management). It starts with a rolling program across all 3 test teams – Members, Sports and Sports back office. Where we started to pick up the fundamentals of what we would be doing as testers. Once the rolling program was complete, we were then each placed in one of 3 test teams and begun to work through a very comprehensive agenda. There was a lot to cover but it was all broken down into specific learning objectives.

Now we have completed the academy, we do have more ownership of our day to day work. Our responsibilities are not much different now to a Software tester, meaning we can be scripting and executing a Small Works or involved in Project work.” - Sarah Donally

What Training did you receive in the Academy?

“It would be hard to sum up the training that I have received, because it was so comprehensive. I received 1:1 training for the first 10 months (roughly) of the training pack, where as much product and job know-how knowledge as possible was imparted upon me. It was quite intense, especially given the duration of the training but I do acknowledge and appreciate both the amount of work and time that has gone into the training. I’ve been working for 15 years and have never known such dedicated training for such a long period of time”? - Megan Walsh

“I received brilliant hands on training from fellow testers with years of experience in the role. For the first 6 months of my time in the team, I would sit with an experienced tester each day whilst they provided me with information about the tools/services as well as software testing theory. All of the training was done on my computer, rather than via watching the other testers, something that really suited my learning style and allowed me to make the most of the training I was receiving.“ - James Griffiths

What is the Most challenging part about the Academy?

“The most challenging part of the Academy, but also offers the most sense of progression for me that I enjoy, has been testing a wide range of the product offered that I am unfamiliar with. However, due to the training I received I know how to apply techniques learnt and to use communicational skills with other departments to find out information needed to enable me to test the product correctly.” - Jordan Paine

What is your biggest achievement so far within the Academy?

“Passing the ISTQB qualification with a grade of 37/40 was a very proud moment for myself. Being able pass knowledge on to very experienced testers as I have been part of a piece of work that they have not, and it now feels like I am coming full circle and can give advice as well as receive it.” - Liam Welsh

?“The biggest achievement that sticks out to me so far was completing my first big piece of work, and then receiving the email to say that it had been released to live. It was tangible proof that what I was doing was having a positive impact on the business and that maybe I did actually know what I was doing!” - Megan Walsh

??“Definitely passing and obtaining my ISTQB certificate. That has really given me a confidence boost in having actual certified proof that I have the knowledge and skills (picked up during the test academy) to be a software tester.” - Sarah Donally

?Would you recommend the Academy – if so why?

“I would definitely recommend the Academy, it is a great opportunity to join an industry leading company that places a strong emphasis on providing their staff with extensive and thorough training. The skills you learn and develop are deployed to ensure the business continues to offer the best product in the market. The training has been amazing and I have really valued how?personalised it has been and the resources/time used to help me develop into the role. I know that this level of training is not commonplace and it has equipped me with skills and knowledge in a role I had no prior exposure to.” - James Griffiths

“Wholeheartedly, to say it has been life changing is slightly dramatic but it has certainly opened door in my life which would have otherwise remained closed” - Liam Walsh

“If you are someone who is looking for a change then I would absolutely recommend the academy. It has definitely changed my life.” - Megan Walsh

“I would recommend the Academy to anyone who enjoys a challenge, continuous learning and self-development. This is what the Academy process has encompassed for myself with the aspect of working as a team to meet deadlines in the fast paced business, offering a sense of achievement and accomplishment on a weekly basis.” - Jordan Paine

“Absolutely! One of the best career decisions I have made. It has opened up a brand new career and opportunities that I would have never had. It is very well structured and really does give you all the skills and knowledge needed to be a software tester” - Sarah Donally