Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice Review

My apprenticeship is separated into 3 different placements across HR. My day-to-day tasks vary, with my first placement being in Policy, where I was able to lead on a new workplace adjustments project and I am currently doing project management for a huge recruitment transformation.

I've learnt many contrasting skills across my apprenticeship. I have developed extensive project management skills, which I have been able to utilise in a more recent project to increase inclusivity for Deaf colleagues across Royal Mail. I have also significantly developed my confidence, communication skills and strategic/critical thinking - and my degree in applied business management has supported massively with my skills development.

I really enjoy my programme. Being able to move across different placements across HR has provided me with a breadth of opportunities and experience. I also enjoy my degree - it has given me skills and knowledge that I have been able to apply to my work.

From a degree and training provider perspective, the programme is well structured, with clear dates for submissions and for the EPA. However, the structure is unclear from an employer perspective - we haven't been provided with clear information as to when we'd be switching placements and performance reviews take the same structure as other employees across the organisation, which is not fit for purpose for this apprenticeship as placements have typically lasted 10 months instead of a year.

I receive excellent support from my employer - both my line managers so far have been very supportive of my programme, providing me with amazing opportunities and helping with my studies - whether that's ensuring I receive my off-the-job training hours or guiding me to the right contacts to make my submissions meaningful.

I receive extensive support from my training provider. My Professional Development Expert (PDE) supports me with both personal and career development. Reviews are well structured and truly motivated, allowing me to consistently reflect on my progress throughout the apprenticeship and pushing me to advance my skills and knowledge even further.

Very well. I have always found a way to link the modules and the knowledge I am learning to my everyday role. My studies have enabled me to share meaningful contributions and ideas to various projects and have supported me to create impressive pieces of work across both my placements so far.

There are many professional events provided my my organisation, often relating to the organisation's ERGs which has enabled me to expand my network internally. My organisation has also supported me with my passion for promoting apprenticeships as an Apprentice Ambassador for the AAN, which has provided me with many presenting opportunities and enabled me to expand my network externally too.

Yes

Royal Mail has provided me with extensive opportunities and growth and has enabled me to accelerate my career. The skills, knowledge and experience I have developed throughout my programme are transferrable to endless careers and the support I have received from my managers, colleagues and the business have contributed massively to my development success.

As a massive organisation, Royal Mail have numerous apprenticeship opportunities, each with their unique structure and areas - so make sure you research which ones inspire you the most. Show you are curious and invested in your own development - interviews are for you as much as they are for Royal Mail!