John Connolly Interview Presentation

About Me

I am a mainly self-taught web developer looking for an Apprentice Role to develop the skills I have leant so far and to gain experience in an industry setting. I was a pastry chef for many years but when the covid pandemic hit and I was given a severance package I decided now was the perfect time to change career and do something I would love. I have wanted to make this change for a number of years now but I didn’t believe it was feasible without a degree in the field. I have been building my own web pages and learning mostly front-end languages and technologies such as HTML, CSS, Bootstrap and WordPress. I am also in the early processes of learning JavaScript, Python and MySQL. I have recently been building custom theme WordPress sites using PHP. For the best part of the last year I have been building static sites and building up my portfolio using the languages and skills I have learnt so far. Although I have more experience in front end development and WordPress my ambition is to become a full stack developer in the future. I have also completed a coding and development course with Code nation and a Web Design course with Adobe XD. I am looking for an opportunity to break in the industry and I am determined to prove that even without a degree in the field I can become a successful developer and a valued member of your team.

Experience

I have recently been building a custom WordPress website for a non-profit organisation to gain experience in a professional setting. I designed the site using HTML, CSS and some JavaScript. I then created a custom theme with PHP with theme supports and custom post types. The client was very happy with the results. I learnt a lot and it was a great experience to learn more about PHP, custom themes and post types. Also, the useful plugins that WordPress has in its library. I have been building several of my Web Pages over the last 8 months using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap and WordPress. I have also been developing Shopify platforms. These Sites are fully responsive and can be used on many different browsers. I have also used JavaScript, PHP and Python to a lesser extent. I have also designed webpages using Adobe XD and have some Photoshop experience. I also have experience in making a team Word based game with Python as part of my Code Nation Coding and Development course in which I also used systems such as Trello, Slack and Kanban to plan and build the project with my team mates. I also built my own “About me” Website. I enjoyed my time in the course, working as a team to produce a project on time and problem-solving together. I also led the presentation of the game to the rest of the class with a demonstration of the game and the code used and a power point presentation of the different stages of planning and problems we faced/solved.

Non Web Experience

I have been a pastry chef for a number of years, having worked in the Bakery/Catering industry since I left school. I have rose to the level of head pastry chef in my last two positions and worked as Head Baker at Manchester University for the past 5 years. Where I believe I developed many transferable skills such as

• Team work
• Leadership
• Planning and time management
• An attention to detail
• Hitting targets
• A touch of creative flair.

I also won several industry awards as part of TUCO the national university caterers association.

Education

Code Nation- Coding and Development – Level 2 (2021)
NVQ Level 3 Advanced- Bakery Production (2008)
Key Skills Maths, English and IT- Level 2 (2008)
9 GCSE’s (2000)

Key Skills and Competentcies

Proven abilities to produce fully functioning and responsive font end code to produce web pages.
Strong knowledge of using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, WordPress and Adobe XD.
Experience of designing Logos, Form Sheets, Web Pages and other design projects.
Experience of working in teams and team leadership.
Problem solving, Organizing and prioritizing.
Independent learning and research.
Self-motivated and determined to succeed.
Logical and Cognitive thinker.
Organisation and time management skills
Creativity and attention to detail.

Hobbies and Interests

I am a bit of a foodie and enjoy trying out new restaurants and trying new recipes. I am also a strong baker after years of being a pastry chef. I enjoy playing badminton, and I jog quite often and have completed a few half marathons which helps to burn off all the food and cake. I enjoy watching football and socializing with friends. I have also taken up painting but I’m a long way from being a master at the moment. I also enjoy gaming.