Systems Programmer Review

In my role I manage some of the security services for the mainframe. This role includes things like certification, networking, presentations, product testing, programming using cobol, java, and rexx. I interact with a lot of different IT teams within my role, from websphere to CICs to storage teams and capacity management teams. This role has given me an insight into a side of IT I never knew existed and although comes with a steep learning curve is really enjoyable.

I am studying two years currently for the equivalent of a HNC through my job and through QA. Some of the skills I've picked up so far are: Project Management, Additional Programming Languages (REXX and COBOL), Hardware Maintenance, OS installation. Windows 7 and 10 configuration and installation. Cisco Network Certification, Information Security Management, Cyber Security Principles and lots more to come. The role has made me a more confident version of myself as it has exposed me to a variety of people and tasks which have taken me out of my comfort zone.

I enjoy my programme a lot. The team I'm placed in is great, very supportive and go out their way to teach me new things and help me develop. The courses from QA have been interesting for the most part, despite some of the tutors I've had for the courses lacking any enthusiasm to teach. The culture of my company is very diverse and accepting, and completely surpassed any expectations I had previously.

RBS makes sure that everyone is valued for who they are and what they do. I feel extremely valued and my manager and team recognises the amount of effort I put in to learn everything I need to do my job. I have been involved in many projects since day 1 of the job, and I've actively sought out feedback from people which is constructive and fair. I feel valued when my team takes time out of their busy schedules to sit with me and teach me something new. So yes on the whole RBS makes me feel valued.

The organisation and structure of the training programme could stand to be improved. When I first joined the company there were no training programs in place for us new starts (all 26 of us) and for the first couple of weeks we were left to fumble our way through. For myself personally I didn't mind this too much as my team stepped in and helped me, trained me in the basics and helped me to understand my role, and how the structure of the company works.

QA is my training provider and they have been quite helpful. My tutor [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] has been exceptional in helping me, and kept at my pace to allow me to finish my first year of coursework early. He has always been easy to reach and if I was unable to be booked onto a course he would send me the materials for it if I requested it. QA as a whole need to spend time on upgrading their computers for learners as the slow responses from the machines made learning in the labs a chore. A couple of the tutors we had on the courses also seemed like they weren't interested in teaching and that was fed back to QA at the time. But on the whole QA has helped me develop a lot of new skills.

I have an incredible support structure at RBS. My manager is hands off until I need help or have an issue at which point he does everything he can to resolve the issue. My mentors have continued to support me on a week to week basis and have helped to create a development plan for me, so I can better my skills and become and expert in my job. The HR team is a dedicated team, and resolve pay issues and any other HR issues in a very quick turn around. RBS senior leadership are highly focused on developing us to our best and that can be seen.

For an apprenticeship RBS pays well about the national average. Travel is inexpensive, however due to being located in Edinburgh things such as rent and council tax quickly eat up this salary. The package is composed of a salary as well as benefits. But could stand to be slightly more to accommodate the competitive renting market. The benefits packages we are given are excellent however.

Outside of business hours I've been a part of a lot of company events and activities. These were all designed to let the apprentices know each other and experience different aspects of the company. There is a chance to sign up for volunteering days too, which are organised by RBS, and allow RBS and its employees to give something to the local community.

Yes

Rbs is a diverse and inclusive company, who's focus has shifted in the last 6 years. The drive to do better is something to admire, and the support and recognition of its workers is one of its highest priorities. There are many career paths that can be explored and taken once in RBS and I personally feel is a great place to work.

The application process itself is a bit long as there are usually so many participants. Don't be disheartened if you don't hear anything right away it takes time. Be yourself, yes prepare for the process but remember that they want to see the person as well as what you know. The onboarding days give you plenty of time to get to know people you will potentially be working with, and allows you to make usefully connections across the bank. Finally if you're unsure during the process, just ask. None of them want to see you fail, they're there to help get the most from you during your assessment time.