Technology Aprrentice: Retail Service Management Review

In my role, I work closely with both Technology Application Support teams and Business Operational users to ensure a consistent service being delivered to the Retail and DC business. Daily tasks range from logging and recoding incidents, dealing with customer complaints linked to technology and maintaining relationships with 3rd party vendors.

Since being on this course, the skills that I have developed have been vast. These stem from the training courses I undertook as part of the scheme I am on around software development (Level 3 Diploma for ICT Professional Competence and Level 3 Certificate in ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals)to skills acquired during day to day activities such as liaising with vendors and reviewing invoices. All of the skills that I have acquired through the apprenticeship have made me more confident within my job role.

I enjoy my programme, this is both because of the role I do, and the people that I work with. My colleagues are highly supportive and happy to help if I encounter a issue to aid my development. The company as a whole is very supportive and provides opportunities to start a successful career within the industry.

I feel as valued as any other employee, whether they are on a temp contract or permanent role as Fidelity treats all employees the same, regardless of position / job role. This is backed up the increasing responsibility placed on myself as my experience develops. My manager is supportive of my work, always showing appreciation for tasks undertaken along with feedback on areas to improve upon to enhance the level of my work.

From the start the organisation of the scheme is excellent. For me this structure and organisation began even before my first day. I was invited into the office to meet the team informally and to get to know the colleagues I would be working with before I began working with them. On the first day I was given an induction from HR. The training is well organised, with a clear order and regular 6 weekly meetings with my assessor to keep on top of my progress both within my role at work and my apprenticeship units. I receive good support from my manager, with regular 1-2-1 catch-up meetings. Furthermore to the above, the fact that this is a 3 year scheme is really beneficial, as during the first year due to the training programmes you find yourself out of the office for a number of weeks. The subsequent 2 years allow you to take on a larger workload, increasing your experience within the role, and to gain more specific skill sets.

I have now completed my year course with the training provider. I found my assessor to be easily accessible to answer questions and respond to any concerns I had. I had a contact at the learning provider who was dedicated to provide personnel support for me if it was required. This contact was able to assist with any conflicts within the work environment if they are required.

My manager will always make time to catch up with me on a regular basis to ensure the scheme is going well and that I have a appropriate workload. Each apprentice has their own HR representative, which ensures that 1-2-1 meetings are readily available. Upon joining the scheme a apprentice is paired up with a Mentor who will help them settle into the workplace and provide support if required. The mentor will also help develop the skills of the apprentice The support I receive stretches beyond HR and manager, all colleagues are supportive, providing assistance with the tasks I undertake to ensure I am confident in what I am doing. They will point out what I am doing well, constructively correct mistakes and suggest where any improvements can be made.

The salary and benefits package that I receive comfortable supports my daily, monthly and annual expenses allowing me to live comfortable while developing my ability in my job role. The location of the office is highly convenient, resulting in no unnecessary time spent traveling to and from my place of work.

There are always company events and activities to attend, whether these be fund raising event for charities, or events put on during lunch time for employees to partake in, such as fitness clubs. There are also external 'clubs' such as a football club. Through the external discounts scheme there are also opportunities to partake in other activities.

Yes

I already have recommended Fidelity to a friend, who has managed to secure a position at the company. The reason for recommending the company is that it is a well respected firm, who care about the employees, providing excellent benefits and opportunities.

The application for the scheme is intense and at some stages daunting, however it is worth every bit of effort in the end! The application process is straight forward, where you fill out an online form and upload your CV. This is followed by a telephone interview with a senior member of staff. The final stage of the process is an Assessment day where you are interview by members of staff, give a presentation on a stated topic and participate in a group exercise. I would strongly encourage anyone else to apply to Fidelity, do their best and they have the opportunity to go far!