Finance Apprentice Review

by Transport for London

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

10/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Finance Apprentice. Three placements - Cash Management, Revenue Collection and Insight. These are all transactional roles.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Currently I am undertaking exams to complete the certificate of business accounting with CIMA. In addition to this I have been doing a level 4 NVQ Diploma. For me the most important and valuable skills I have picked are from learning on the job. The experience I have gained is invaluable.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The variety within the roles and variety amongst the organization ensures that you are always moving around learning. For me this is a very unique financial related apprenticeship as it gives you exposure to the operational side as well

10/10

4. How valued do you feel by Transport for London?

As there are only three apprentices on the scheme we feel very valued. we have regular contact with our scheme sponsor and a monthly catch up, he is very keen to support us. I have also been given responsibility to complete tasks, The trust for me to complete any tasks has definitely boosted my confidence.

10/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I know exactly how my programme is structured as there are monthly meetings which allow me to detail my goals and objectives. Although I have a structured plan it is fairly flexible in the departments I can choose.

10/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

I have been given an assessor which helps me through all individual pieces of coursework. I have a monthly phonecall with her. The tutor's for the exams are very good and are always keen to help. The lessons are fast paced the VLE which goes along side it is very useful.

10/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

There is an apprenticeship support manager who takes care of my scheme, we have regular contact with her. Within the company we are supported by a buddy who has previously completed the scheme as well as line managers at each placement. We also have a sponsor who overlooks all of this. Everyone is very friendly and are keen to put your development at the forefront of everything.

10/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

The salary I receive is generous and allows me to live a comfortable life. There are no travel costs as we are given a free Oyster card for London and of the offices are in London

10/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

many we are allowed to help out on days with the operational side in a scheme called ambassadors, it also allows us to make some extra money if you do a licensed shift.

10/10

9. Would you recommend Transport for London to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I have in fact recommended to a friend already. When I was looking for an apprenticeship this scheme really stood out to me, the variety and flexibility ensures you will always be developing and learning. To add to this o haven't met anyone in my 8 months who isn't friendly.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Transport for London?

Just be yourself. In the interview always relate back to examples in your life where you have demonstrated the behavior they are asking about. Research the TFL competencies and behaviors and relate to these throughout. Once in the job grab every opportunity possible.