Technology Apprentice Review

My role is within the Fixed Income Support team. My daily tasks include checking open tickets which need attention from the London & India team. Furthermore, I interact daily with a mixture of different teams/people, from Fund Managers to the Desktop Support Team. Current projects include re-designing the team's Confluence page (a 'hub' for our team which includes examples of issues we have solved, and documentation), and continuing with improving my technical skills. No day is the same, as different issues may arise.

I have developed my technical skills, which includes an IT Diploma which each apprentice is enrolled on. This includes units such as Server Administration, Security Essentials & Networking Essentials. Furthermore, I have been on 'soft skills' course which improve areas such as Presenting. I've taken courses which improve my skills in relation to the applications that my team support. Within my 2nd year, I will be taking the IMC exam, which will help further my career.

My programme is very enjoyable. The team I currently work in, constantly involve me with tasks, and answer any questions I may have. Everyone I have talked to within Fidelity has been helpful, and everyone is approachable. I'm enjoying the programme, and looking forward to the 2nd & 3rd year. This programme has exceeded my expectations, as I feel more involved within my team than I originally thought I would be.

I feel very valued by Fidelity. My manager constantly reviews me, and ensures that I'm happy with my progression, while testing my learning to ensure I am maximising my potential. I've been given individual tasks for the team, which helps me feel valued as I'll be contributing to my team, without the help of my team members. Currently, I am re-designing/organising our Confluence page, which will be used going forward by the entire team, which I feel is a big responsibility, which they could have done themselves, but they have given me the responsibility to do it which I appreciate.

The organisation of the programme is good. Each apprentice is enrolled on an IT Diploma course, with the option to undertake any additional training which we may feel is necessary. When we started the apprenticeship,, we were given an induction & met with our managers in an informal environment to ask as many questions as we could, before beginning work. We have been given support, whether to do with training or personal. Each manager develops a plan/structure for their apprentice, which helps set goals for our learning. It also gives us a structure to follow. My manager organised a 6 month plan, and even went as far as to have me take a test online to determine my learning style, so he could present the information in the best way for me, which I really appreciated. The hierarchy of my team is clear. My programme has been well organised.

I am given support by my training provider when I need it. We currently have coursework to complete in line with our IT Diploma, and our tutors always give us guidance if we need, and answer any questions we may have. We have meetings with our tutors every few weeks, to look over the work we are doing, and provide support, both from a training standpoint, to a personal one. I have enjoyed completing my IT Diploma.

My employer has supported me a lot since I started in Fidelity. 3 months in, I requested to move teams to a different role, and there were no problems with doing so. My new manager had various meetings with me, answering any questions I had and ensuring that he would support me in fulfilling my potential. Along every step of the way, he has supported me and provided me with guidance. Furthermore, the HR team are very hands on, and very approachable. They will come to meet with you when requested, even travelling to your office. They all answer any questions, and always provide the best support they can.

My salary meets my costs well. While the location is far from my home, getting to the office was made easier by Fidelity, which helped me feel valued. I feel we are paid very well to meet our costs.

There are always events happening outside of work, from fundraising events for charity, to Christmas events and choirs. Individual teams do meet outside of work for team bonding events, which can range from a day out, to a trip to a local restaurant. We are all able to have our own fundraising event, and we are supported by Fidelity to do this.

Yes

Fidelity has given me the opportunity to develop my skills in an area which I had no experience to prior. They have supported me every step of the way, and made me feel valued. While starting in a different industry is daunting, I am supported and guided well enough to believe that I can succeed in this company. There is room for progression in this company, and the culture as a whole makes it a very enjoyable place to work. Every member of staff are approachable, and make you feel part of the company.

My main tip as far as the interviews go, is to be completely honest. By doing this, there won't be any bad surprises both for you, and your employer. I informed Fidelity about my lack of experience in this industry in my interview, so they knew I would need the training necessary to develop my skills. Furthermore, I would advise someone to read up on the company beforehand, and ensure they fully understand what Fidelity, as a company, does. If successful, I recommend outside reading to improve your knowledge. This will be recognised, and can help you feel more confident in your role. Ensure you dress well, as this can help make a positive impression. Finally, take advantage of all training opportunities that Fidelity offer, as these will help you within your day-to-day role, and in your future career.