Applications Analyst Review

I work within IT, helping to support business critical systems. I am currently participating in several placements across a range of teams in order to gain a general understanding of all areas before starting an enduring placement, in which I will focus on one system or business area.

I have spent a good amount of time working with other team members and training materials in order to learn and develop the professional skills relating to my role in IT and business as a whole. In addition to this, I have attended a vast array of training sessions in order to help me develop my soft-skills, held both internally and externally trainer. As a result, I feel that I have progressed well across the board.

I am thoroughly enjoying the programme - I have been able to get stuck into fun, but challenging tasks in the office, and also attend useful and effective training sessions. I have felt pushed and supported throughout all areas of the apprenticeship, and have built some great relationships with colleagues.

At National Grid apprentices are valued equally with other employees. At all levels I have felt that my concerns and views are listened to and taken into account, with my skills recognised by others in the team. I have been able to get stuck into an array of fun and interesting tasks and support others in their day-to-day tasks, with their support where needed. We also have access to the same benefits portal, resources and support network.

I feel that the programme is well structured, with a training plan available to me detailing the courses and other sessions I will be attending throughout the scheme. My time in the workplace has also been carefully considered and planned, allowing for time across the various teams in order to give me the general understanding that is useful in this role. The order of these placements has been taken into account, allowing information and experience to be gathered and linked together easily.

I feel that I have access to a great support network from training providers both internally and externally. I visit the academies regularly and have regular reviews to ensure that I remain on-track. In addition to this, there are several people I can contact at any point if I need help.

As with my training providers, I have a high level of support from my employer through things such as regular one-to-one meetings with my line manager and a big support network of approachable staff within each team. I feel that I am able to contact a range of people at any time and that my concerns and views are listened and responded to quickly.

I am on a very good salary at National Grid, meaning that despite a reasonable length commute all of my costs are covered. In addition to this, equipment is provided and all reasonable expenses are paid promptly providing a receipt can be provided, meaning that additional costs incurred as a result of my job are not an issue.

When joining, I was automatically enrolled in a network of new staff that regularly have opportunities for events and visits. In addition to this, there are also other opportunities such as volunteering events and those to promote STEM subjects in schools. Despite working in a different office to many colleagues, I have built and maintained good relationships that have allowed for social activities outside of work, especially whilst away training.

Yes

National Grid is a fantastic company to work for, providing many brilliant opportunities for both personal and professional development. I work in a unique and exciting role within an evolving industry, facing new challenges every day that allow me to make a difference. I feel as though I am a valued member of the company, and in addition to this have access to a great range of benefits and get paid a very competitive salary.

Firstly, the most important thing is to research the company and identify key facts and figures. In addition to this, look into the future of the company and also the energy industry as a whole, making note of any large projects or targets that will impact National Grid. Being able to provide facts about these things will impress the recruitment staff, which is very important given the high number of applicants per available place. The recruitment process can be long, with elements such as psychometric testing, interviews and Assessment Center days all being used to assess you. However, don't let this get to you - keep the end goal in mind! Use any information provided to prepare to the best of your ability and just do your best. Where possible try be assertive but not overpowering, especially in group tasks, as this will also help to impress assessors.