Human Resources Management Apprentice Review

I currently work in HR. There is a lot of flexibility within my role, allowing me to have access to experience across HR and learn from the experts. Despite not having any previous experience, it has been brilliant so far, due to the help and guidance given by everybody I have encountered.

Time management and people skills have been two skills that have been challenging yet I feel I've developed. As this is a management qualification, training sessions have been focused on dealing with people and attempting new methods of communication and response has been highly effective. Through my Level 5 CIPD studies I have also been able to learn more about the HR context, and this does link to my work.

This apprenticeship has exceeded my expectation, and so far it has been very positive. Everybody I have worked with has been accepting, and there is a good deal of positivity towards apprentices in TfL.

I would say I am relied upon when in certain teams, nothing too pressurising, however it is enough to make you feel valued, and with that there is considerable recognition from colleagues and managers.

The program is very structured, however there is also some flexibility. As an apprentice I have a buddy, mentor, line manager and a sponsor. We also have had great support from our director and also senior managers. The placements have a good structure, with objectives being set before every placement.

Our training provider is new to its role, however the study sessions that we attend are valuable and useful. They are supportive towards our little knowledge of HR, this aspect of the apprenticeship is for me not as enjoyable as the work aspect. However it is interesting to learn about the theoretical side of HR.

I receive a lot of support from my sponsor and buddy. My placements managers are also very good at checking up on me and setting work. I have a mentor, however, I check in more with my buddy, as they are closer in age and used to the apprenticeship. Everybody seems to want to help which is always very re-assuring.

My salary is very competitive, and we also receive free travel within London and considerable discount on national rail. Travelling from outside of London has not been an issue at all.

Outside of work, as apprentices it is busy, we do socialise in London quite a bit. Most of the teams that I work with also socialise regularly which is good. There are also company events ranging from the Christmas Party to Health and Well Being events.

Yes

Transport for London is a great place to start your career, and allows you to experience what it is like to work within a large organisation. There are little to no limitations of what you can do or achieve, and this for somebody who is new to the company, is great.

Prepare for your interview by researching the company and the scheme. Try to get as much experience as possible before applying, even if it is just working in a shop, you need examples in your interview.