Project Management Degree Apprentice Review

Day to Day I operate as a Project Coordinator. This can include a variety of tasks from managing & tracking finances, ensuring effective scheduling, managing resources and resolving queries within the team. Currently, I support the Delivery Lead of a project, tracking finances and making sure real data matches the predicted numbers. In essence the role is to support the Project Manager in smooth and effective delivery of a project.

I have learnt comprehensive skills in Microsoft Office, specifically excel. This has proved invaluable to streamlining my work. I have also developed lots of skills in specific complex tools which has enabled me to feel confident in doing my job. Computacenter also run sessions on professional skills such as Business Etiquette and Presentation Skills, these workshops have enabled me to be more confident in the workplace. In support of my job role I have learnt how to take minutes and lead sessions. There are internal development tools where you can choose new skills to learn/developed.

I largely enjoy my programme. It is very dynamic and I do not find it overly repetitive. That being said some activities are monotonous. I have had the opportunity to get involved in company wide events and take on responsibilities I thought wouldn't be open to apprentices. I have also had the opportunity to engage in outreach programmes which I have enjoyed getting involved with

Now being 6 months in, the programme is better organised and structured. This is because I am on a project and have a consistent workstream. Initially there was a lack of clarity and my cohort found themselves unsure on what was expected of us, we spent the first 2 months 'floating' in the projects team. Now we are more certain of our responsibilities

I receive a lot of support from Computacenter, the apprenticeship support teams are only a call/message away and have stepped in and provided clarity and help when required. They offer monthly catch ups with all the apprentices and this provides the opportunity to be notified on changes and new events as well as raise concerns. I have personally gone with workflow, training provider and team based issues and its all been resolved very well.

The support is adequate. The lecturers are fast to provide responses to emails and answer questions in lecturers well. Additionally, sessions can be booked with leaders to discuss issues and ask for additional support if you don't understand the direction you should be heading in. The online tools make it easy to find resources I want or raise concerns with the appropriate individuals

Personally, as we work as Project Coordinators rather than Project Managers, the Project Management related modules don't help us in any way currently and we cannot utilise an existing understanding to support our learning. This training will be immensely beneficial in the future though, and will support future performance. The modules a long side help with additional knowledge that is beneficial for future development.

There is lots to get involved with. There are 'clubs/societies' than you can get involved with, these are groups of likeminded individuals that you can share interests with, some include: bookclubs, football teams, and veterans. There are also bake sales you can volunteer at, diversity days and in your teams you have the opportunity to go to social events and dinners to build up the team relationships.

Yes

Computacenter is a great choice for an apprenticeship because it offers extensive industry experience, hands-on learning with advanced technology, and strong career development opportunities. The supportive and inclusive work culture, along with the chance to build a professional network and gain international exposure, makes it an excellent place to start your career. I have also felt valued throughout my time so far.

Be yourself, and genuine. They value honesty and those who get others involved, don't try to be over confident to showcase your skills, be collaborative when bringing your ideas and be positive