Samuel Parker
Junior Developer
A brief introduction to Samuel...
Born and raised in Bristol, I have travelled extensively through Europe, Asia, and the Americas. After School I earned a History & Politics degree at Plymouth University. Following University, I worked various roles, then built a career in serviced apartments. Now, as parent of two children, I’m exploring a different direction.
As a Junior Developer with a strong interest in software development, I take pride in writing clean, maintainable code and have a solid understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle. I enjoy tackling technical challenges and have demonstrated strong problem-solving skills in both individual and collaborative settings. While I am proficient in HTML and CSS, I’m continuing to develop my Python skills and actively learning JavaScript to broaden my toolkit. I’m currently seeking opportunities where I can apply my technical expertise, collaborate within a dynamic team, and continue growing as a developer.
Outside of coding, I’m a passionate PC builder, avid gamer, photographer, beer drinker and hockey enthusiast. These hobbies have helped me sharpen my problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and adaptability—qualities that I bring into my development work. Whether troubleshooting a build, strategizing in a game, or coordinating on the hockey field, I thrive in environments where I can combine technical skill with teamwork.
In addition to my technical skills, I bring a wide range of transferable skills from my previous career as an Account Manager, where I learned the importance of clear communication, effective project management, and delivering results under pressure. These experiences allow me to bring a well-rounded approach to development, ensuring that I deliver high-quality work while meeting deadlines. During this time I worked with big clients such as Booking.com, Expedia/Hotels.com, Siteminder and Innquest.
I am passionate about continuous learning and self-improvement. After completing the Full Stack Developer course at the Code Institute, I’ve been expanding my knowledge through online courses, including Codecademy's Python-focused Computer Science Career Path and JavaScript modules. I am always excited to learn new technologies and push the boundaries of what I can do.
Skills Progress
(According to Codecademy)
Codecademy
Completed
- HTML (7 Hours)
- CSS (6 Hours)
- Bootstrap (3 Hours)
- Learn Python 3(23 Hours)
- Fundamentals of Cyber Security (3 Hours)
In Progress
- Computer Science Career Path, emphasis on Python (80 Hours)
- JavaScript (15 Hours)
- C++ (11 Hours)
Education
-
Code Institute April 2024 - August 2024: Full Stack Developer Boot Camp
-
University of Plymouth Sept 2006 - June 2009: History with Politics BA Hons
Employment History
- Career Break: Family & Code Institute Bootcamp (February 2024 - August 2024)
- Developed problem-solving skills through solo and group coding projects.
- Demonstrated collaboration by working with peers on dynamic web applications.
- Managed time efficiently using Agile methodologies for project deadlines.
- Adapted to both front-end and back-end development tasks, improving versatility.
- Freelance Photographer (January 2016 - Present)
- Strong communication and client management skills, independently handling projects from planning to execution.
- Adaptability to high-pressure environments, meeting tight deadlines and resolving issues quickly.
- Effective problem-solving, ensuring client satisfaction and project success.
- Attention to detail in post-production and final delivery of projects.
- Account Manager, Your Stay Bristol Serviced Apartments (March 2012 - January 2024)
- Excellent problem-solving skills, resolving booking, payment, and debt issues to improve client satisfaction.
- Strong organisational skills, managing client accounts, payments, and platform content delivery.
- Collaboration with colleagues, coordinating across teams to manage backend websites and content.
- Adaptability to manage live feeds and handle requests for XML reports.
- Career Break: Travel (February 2011 - February 2012)
- Adaptability, enhanced through navigating new environments and challenges across multiple countries.
- Organisational skills, demonstrated by managing travel logistics and timelines.
- Effective communication skills, developed through interacting with diverse cultures.
- Customer Care Officer, South Gloucestershire Council (July 2010 - January 2011)
- Excellent communication skills, acting as a key liaison between departments and clients.
- Teamwork and collaboration, working closely with council teams to manage tasks.
- Problem-solving, resolving client issues efficiently and maintaining satisfaction.
Projects
Staying Safe Online
A group project using HTML, CSS & Bootstrap to provide users with essential tips and tools for maintaining online security.
InfoQuiz JS Project
A group project utilizing HTML, CSS, JavaScript & Bootstrap to create a dynamic quiz application.
CarewFest Beers and Reviews
An individual project using HTML, CSS, Python, Django, JavaScript & Bootstrap to manage and review beers at a festival.
Byte to Eat
A group project with HTML, CSS, Python, Django & Bootstrap focused on providing food-related recommendations and reviews.
