Insurance Practioner Apprentice Review

My job is within AUM (Aon Underwriting Managers), which means that we are not brokers, we are underwriters. At this stage my job mainly requires me to process quotes and accept polices for renewal on our systems for various lines of business. My daily activities include arriving to work promptly every morning and checking my emails for anything of importance. From there it varies from day-to-day. In our team we are assigned duties that change on a weekly basis.

I have learnt many soft skills during my time at Aon so far. Be it talking to claimants or corresponding with underwriters/brokers, you are constantly building your confidence with people. I have also gained valuable skills and knowledge with regards to insurance, as I am studying for my Cert CII qualification.

I genuinely enjoy coming to work every day, the team you work with and the people that surround you make the world of difference. The inclusive culture at Aon makes it a joy to work in, this means that you are always motivated and have a positive mindset throughout the day.

From day one you are learning your role within Aon and developing at a rapid pace. I joined Aon 3 months ago and already feel like a valued member of my team, who makes a real contribution to the work that goes out. The fast pace and changing dynamic of the role means that you are always learning new ways in which you can make a true contribution to your team.

The way Aon have treated me in the last 3 months has been exceptional. From the 2 week training course at a conference centre with a golf course and spa facilities, to the monthly CII exam training classe taking place in the head office. Aon's treatment of me has been second to none. Aon are truly leading the industry in the apprenticeship market, and they realise that this is the future.

Studying a completely new syllabus in a new industry can be intimidating. However, with the training sessions provided by The Skills Company and the support they provide it is a breeze. Learning industry specific legislation is also easy with the use of 'Aon University', which is Aon's internal education system to keep employees up to date on industry wide changes.

Managers work closely with their teams to provide support and guidance in the first stages of your Aon career. This steers you on the right path to development. You can approach your manager without hesitation with any queries or worries that you may have, and they will understand and try to resolve the issues where possible.

I live close to work and therefore only take the train for 3 stops. This means that my costs are relatively low, especially if you bring lunch to work instead of buying it locally. I have enough money to pay my expenses, travel, eat and socialise comfortably. Whilst saving the remainder.

In the short period of time I have been at Aon I have had many opportunities outside of work - such as helping plan Aon's development in the diversity and inclusion awards space, and presenting this to Andrew Tunnicliffe (CEO of ARS UK). This helped develop my presenting skills and boosted my confidence.

Yes

Because I genuinely believe that apprenticeships are the future of recruitment and generating outstanding talent within an organisation. Being able to learn on the job, and get paid generously while you do it, is an opportunity that I would not pass up. It really is a brilliant programme that I would recommend to anyone.

I would say grab on to any opportunities presented to you with both hands, it is the things that you do that others pass up that make you stand out. I would also say that you should never be afraid to ask questions, even if you think it is a stupid question. There is no such thing as a stupid question, it is always best to ask.