Project Manager Apprentice Review

I am currently on a Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management Scheme working for Lloyds Banking Group. Every day is different which makes my job so exciting as one day you can have a list of objectives then the next something comes right out of the blue and needs immediate attention. With this said I get involved with a number of tasks such as weekly status reporting, RAID reviews and the creation of PWG packs. My biggest responsibility to date is leading the IT workstream for my current project which has been a significant learning curve.

I have developed a lot of new skills during my Apprenticeship such as my confidence I have learnt how to speak with clear understanding and be able to influence senior stakeholders. I've also learnt to ask questions (might not be seen as a skill) however by doing so you get right in to the detail and make sure that you understand the project you are working on but greater contextual understanding. Overall I've learnt quality of quantity as getting it right first time is very important.

I love my programme - not going to University was the best choice of my life as it has allowed me at such a young age to work for such a fantastic company. In addition I am gaining the knowledge and experience to lead a successful career in Project Management. That is the key for me, unless the training you receive will take you where you want to go then there's no point in doing it.

The Apprentices scheme is still very new to the Bank however its growing year on year and that's due to the success and hard work of the Apprentices. They are showing that Apprentices have the passion and drive to learn the required skills to work for Lloyds Bank. This is allowing young people to be taught the Lloyds way straight from school and up skill them to potentially one day be the next Senior Leaders of the company.

The scheme is extremely well organised/structured with 2 exams at obvious intervals and the continuation of coursework. The 2 years also enables time to learn about the wider business and undertake numerous shadowing opportunities ensuring great retention rates within the Bank.

The training provider provides the right level of support - the real need of support is during the exam preparation months as the trainer is skilled to teach the required knowledge to pass the exams. Other to that the training provider is not needed as its all about on the job training which is invaluable - being able to put your learning in to practice is so key.

My employer is extremely supportive - the Apprentices Hub is a great community of Senior Leaders all passionate about the scheme and people who want to see others succeed. In particular my Managers understands the scheme, understands the workloads it entails and gives me sufficient time to complete Apprentice work.

When I look around at other schemes and the starting salaries Lloyds Banking Group is by far the most competitive. They understand many colleagues travel a long way (just like myself) and help colleagues with this. I still live at home so don't have the worry of living costs but my travel costs via train in to London are extremely expensive but then working in the city is the place to be. The overall reward package is fantastic and being a full time employee from day 1 means I get treated the same as everyone else.

Lloyds Bank prides themselves on the opportunities they provide out of the 9-5 office environment. Since joining my scheme I have undertaken the Peaks for Pudsey Challenge - climbing 24 peaks in 24 hours all in the aid for Children in Need and been involved in a number of volunteering initiatives. There are no restrictions to participation which I think is fantastic!

Yes

Lloyds Banking Group are offering fantastic opportunity to work for a thriving company who will give you the required knowledge and experience to success in your chosen career path. They will support you 100% and ensure you meet you goals and push you to the very limits to show what you are capable of.

Always be yourself. Lloyds Bank like any other company will look at qualifications etc. but beyond that they want people who fit the mould and believe in the culture of the Bank. Take care and attention with your application form and make sure you full prepare for each stage of the recruitment process. Never think you are competing against others as if everyone is to the standard the Bank will look to employ them all. Overall understand who you are working for, what they stand for and what you scheme involves too many people forget about these basics and get caught out!