O Band Project Support Review

My day to day role changes on a regular basis. I started out working with a team identifying whether businesses were ready for change through regular reporting. I now work in a project analysing finance data, planning resources and tracking team temperature through an online information system I created

In the last few months I've really built on my confidence, I believe this is mainly down to pushing myself, as well as constant support from my manager, to take part in things that test and challenge me. I've also really built on my digital skills like Excel and Google Drive

I feel like my programme has a good balance - 1/2 study leave a week and one day a month Classroom session allows me the opportunity to prioritise my qualifications. I'm never considered 'just an apprentice' in my work area and am a valued colleague however sometimes I don't enjoy how long it takes for work to be marked, perhaps my assessors are given too many apprentices to look after

I feel like a very valued member of my team, I feel like my colleagues see the potential in me, and have really encouraged me to be myself. I've been encouraged to develop both professionally and personally and this makes me feel like a valued member off staff

I feel like my programme is well organised most of the time. I experienced some challenge when my NVQ assessor was changed twice a few months in, and I feel like this caused delays I'm still dealing with. Similarly I feel my HNC teacher has simply too much work and it takes several weeks if not months to receive a grade and feedback.

I feel like I can contact my HNC tutor with any issue and shell usually reply within 1 week. She is very supportive and pitches things at the right level so they're easy to understand. My HNC teacher often rambles during sessions and goes off the point, I do also find it difficult on occasion to contact him however on whole I do feel like I have a fairly good amount of support available if requested.

My manager is very supportive and has a clear focus to help me do my best. Its clear my qualification is a priority for them as well as for myself which is very reassuring. HMRC as a whole however I feel lacks support. I find it difficult to escalate or contact members of the Fast Track team so any issues, ideas or comments often go ignored.

I feel my salary is excellent for someone of my age (19). HMRC do fund any travel incurred in my job as well as pay for food and drink whilst travelling. I do feel the Fast Track Cost centre does not always place funding where it should, I have travelled for the scheme before and my business has had to pay this. The pension scheme is excellent and good work is rewarded with a simply thanks bonus or end of year bonus which is very motivating

I have taken part in several external opportunities that HMRC have supported. Some of these involved partnering with Northumbria County Council to visit schools and careers fairs to promote the Scheme. I'm also currently involved in the Brathay Apprentice challenge whereby I engage with schools, business and complete a community project, if my team get through to the finals we will then be visiting the lake district for 4 days completing orienteering and team building activities.

Yes

I feel like this is a great opportunity to get an insight on how one of the most integral organisations in England runs. As well as the incredible pay and benefits, and the numerous paths of progression, you receive a fully funded HNC and L4 NVQ qualification that is beneficial both in and out of HMRC.

I think what's most important, especially throughout the application process, is that the Fast Track is a leadership apprenticeship. This means you must show your existing and build on your leadership qualities. These being your independence and ability to take responsibility, your team working skills (Leaders aren't necessarily managers) and your USP. What is unique about you that you can build on to make you integral to a team? You don't need to be 100% ready when you apply or when you start, its potential that we need to see.