Group IT apprentice Review

On a day to day basis I am a member of a small team of 10 in London out of wider team of 30 across the country with whom I have interactions frequently throughout the working day or week. Internally I have interactions with many other apprentices who I complete my studies with such as revision sessions or preparing for upcoming assessments. My job mainly consists of working on a small mainframe platform responsible for Scheduling. My responsibilities include workload management support for the team as well as assisting in queries our team receives and any issues we face as well as providing access to systems upon reviewing the requests. Frequently throughout the week I will be completing apprenticeship studies but mainly I will focus on my continued development and training in my role within Lloyds to become more competent and proficient in completing my responsibilities.

Upon first starting the apprenticeship scheme I went on a weeklong training session along with many other apprentices who recently joined the group this was particularly useful to build your initial network within the bank as well as to discuss our experiences. Throughout the duration of my apprenticeship I have learnt many new skills and developed existing skills by completing activities set for me as well as attending external training sessions (Technical and non- technical). I have always enjoyed learning any new skills and always look to develop further in anyway necessary.

With regards to my apprenticeship I have fully enjoyed my experience, with the support from the scheme being brilliant. The work is always interesting and challenging but often rewarding. In my day role within the bank I also fully enjoy this as it is constantly challenging me to become more competent in my ability to perform the required tasks. I have learned multiple technical skills which I can transfer into new roles outside of my team. the programme has exceeded my expectations and company culture is fantastic.

Recognition from the training providers has been brilliant as well as progress made in my apprenticeship from my colleagues. I have also consistently received positive feedback and support from my peers and managers within the group making me feel valued. Additional responsibilities I have taken on do not go unnoticed and are appreciated. With regards to obtaining a permanent position within the group upon completing my apprenticeship studies this is often left uncertain and depends upon 'budgets' or 'head count' however I remain optimistic a role will be given with recognition for my work being shown.

The induction and initial training was seamless and progressed quickly. Support has been on going throughout the entire duration of my programme and meets were also frequent with my mentor and assessor. study time has always been given in a structured manner and exams have been organised. The apprenticeship exams were split into 'semesters' to allow for us to focus on completing a particular task before continuing with other work. This has been particularly useful.

I have always received full support from my training providers, for example if we have an exam coming up I will be able to contact my tutor to arrange a meeting or a phone call to discuss any concerns I may have or to prepare my answers. If necessary I will join group sessions with the other apprentices for additional support. My assessors and tutors from the training provider are always happy to help and are professional. Any issues experienced are promptly addressed and resolved. Access to support has been brilliant with an online portal for information, support, tasks, progress being available.

likewise, my employer has been fully supportive of my apprenticeship studies, allowing me the time to complete my studies each week so that I am prepared for any exams or assessor visits. I will be allowed time to attend meetings for my apprenticeship if necessary. I have not experienced the need to contact anyone outside my team to obtain support for my apprenticeship but my team and manager are fully supportive.

For the UK's biggest Bank it is disappointing that only a select few locations are available for the apprenticeship, therefore I made the decision to relocate to London in order to progress in my career by joining the apprenticeship programme. I shared accommodation with 7 people in a tiny flat in order to live in London on my salary and this was at times depressing when I experienced multiple issues with my accommodation, being unable to afford anything better. In the first 12 months of the apprenticeship you will receive a 33% discount by receiving an Apprentice Photo card which can be used to purchase an annual season ticket - the cost of which can be funded by a 0% loan from LBG. Although I have now completed my apprenticeship and taken on additional responsibilities my salary will not increase for a further 12 months due to the apprenticeship. This is disappointing as I am struggling financially to live in London.

Apprentices will often set up events as well as social activities. The company actively encourages volunteering with everyone receiving a 'day to make a difference' in which they can do charity work for 1 day each year during working hours. Throughout the year we are encouraged to participate in events to help the community and others around us. There are often other initiatives set up for people to get involved in.

Yes

The skills gained whilst working in such a huge organisation like Lloyds are often unparalleled and can be transferred outside of the group for other opportunities. However, there are so many opportunities within Lloyds to progress in your career that there is 'something for everyone'. The apprenticeship scheme is really good for people starting their careers and a great 'foot in the door' as such. Lloyds is a great place to work for minorities and encourage everyone to 'bring them whole selves to work' and appreciate uniqueness and diversity.

Be honest in your applications and interviews - surprisingly Llloyds do not necessarily pick the most educated candidates, instead opting for the most suited and look for individuals values and what YOU can offer and bring to the group. So don't be discouraged to apply if you think you don't have the best qualifications after school or college. The assessment days are always nerve-wracking but remember everyone is feeling the same, so have fun and be attentive throughout. I would like to have been told more about the role I would be placed into, so maybe ask this is your assessment day if you were to be successful.