Apprentice Project Manager Review

My role is supporting the project management office. The work is mainly around governance of all projects in the client account, rather than working in a set of particular projects. This involves updating and maintaining databases of information and finance trackers. Also, I have to communicate across to a handful of senior staff to collate information and update certain reports that get reported up the hierarchy.

I have improved my knowledge of Excel and have generally become more comfortable in providing support and administration. It has developed my communication skills.

I am able to enjoy the programme to the extent where I am able to become more efficient in handling routine tasks but then being able to pick up and learn new areas and tasks.

I feel fairly valued by Atos. They try to accommodate needs when they can

The training is structured in week blocks training every couple of months. To my view, this is quite poor as it means that we are not getting the academic exposure on a regular basis and can be hard to recall knowledge from the previous workshop. In addition, title of the apprenticeship can be quite misleading as the role is more of a PMO support role rather than a project support/coordinator role.

We receive decent support from our training provider. The learning assessor is always able to pay attention and listen to any problems which you feel may need to be addressed.

Support is moderate. A lot of accounts have teams where the individuals are spread across the UK and offshores. There is a lack of physical team presence and so sometimes it can take longer to receive immediate support and advice. However, most colleagues are very approachable and willing to help when they can

Not very well. Salary needs to be higher considering travel and living costs, especially in London. Pay rises are also incremental and I feel that they fall below the market value.

Not many opportunities to do voluntary work/activities to do outside work hours. It helps to have links with charity organisations already. They are very accommodating and welcoming towards you being able to take out some time of work to do the activities.

Yes

Pros: Good roles and responsibilities from the get-go. A relaxed working environment with flexible working hours and being able to work from home is nice Decent progression A global company with a lot to offer in terms of opportunities and rotation of jobs

Do as much research on Atos as possible Reflect on competencies and times where you have worked under pressure Show self confidence and enthusiasm in the role you are applying for