Business Apprentice Review

A variety of different tasks based on the placement I am in. This is due to moving to different placements on a 6-9 month basis. These placements include working in commercial, HR, procurement, business and performance to name a few. Whilst interacting with a variety of people at different levels.

Have been provided with a number of training courses for different types of software within the company such as SAP. We have all been on courses for development such as two life skills courses in Wales. Also we are invited to learn about the different departments when information days are run.

I really enjoy my apprenticeship and believe that it has met my expectations I had before joining the company and at times excelled past this. The company offer a programme that no other company does in the area which makes it really unique. The culture within the company makes the workplace enjoyable and everyone is friendly.

I feel valued by most managers I have worked with in my placements. There is definitely high recognition of apprentices within the company where high performance is recognised and rewarded. We are treated with high respect and are always included in tasks as if we were a full time employee.

The induction for apprentices and graduates is started off by a weeks induction programme. Allowing everyone to get to know eachother. This is then followed by training and development courses. Our university degree is sponsored reducing the costs for us. We are offered mentors and buddies so that we are always supported.

We have a dedicated person at the university to deal with any problems we have which is really useful. We also have an apprenticeship manager within the company who we can contact at anytime should we have any problems. I believe the support on the NVQ/BTEC side of the apprenticeship could be improved to offer more guidance and support.

Our Apprenticeship manager is always willing to talk through any problems we have and offer guidance to us about our development and career. The HR team are also extremely helpful and will help out with anything we need. I currently don't have a mentor but I have been offered one should I wish.

The Salary and other benefits such flexi time is competitive with other companies in the area. The salary increases offered are of the right amount each year to ensure you are motivated to get the high grades and perform in placements. This then means that your salary is self inflicted.

There are lots of opportunities to be involved with local schools and events in the local area. Apprentices are recognised and always asked to do tours of the site or intereact with students from schools. There is a sports and social club which offers cheaper prices to events such as Ascot and Theatre shows.

Yes

Apprentices are valued within the company and highly recognised and rewarded. The opportunities and development you receive is not offered elsewhere in the area which makes the apprenticeship unique. The salary and benefits as a package really motivates you and allows you to have a good start in your career.

I would recommend that you ensure you are honest, truthful and prepared. Make sure that you right your own application so that it is your own personal view. Making sure you put across your strengths and are able to demonstrate these when on assessment days. Take on every opportunity and challenge offered to you.