Level 4 Business Analyst Apprentice Review

Although I am on a Level 4 Business Analyst apprenticeship, last year I took on the role of a Project Manager whilst managing to complete my 1st project for the apprenticeship. I have daily meetings with each of my stakeholders, as well as monthly meetings with my mentors who provide me support though both my apprenticeship and my day to day role.

Whilst taking part in the apprenticeship, I have attended two courses so far: BCS - International Diploma in Business Analysis and ITIL Foundation. My last course is Axelos - MSP Foundation, Practitioner & Advanced Practitioner which I am due to attend later this month. As well as these courses provided by firebrand, I have developed my own personal skills such as confidence, stakeholder management, communication skills, time management and more.

I always enjoy learning new skills and enjoy the academic aspect of the coursework and projects. As I didn't go to university, the programme has provided me the opportunity to learn new skills alongside working full time. In terms of my work, team and company culture, working for Lloyds Banking Group is extremely enjoyable and I have endless amounts of support around me.

When I first joined the group in January 2017, I was brand new to Group IT therefore my first few months was very much focused on building knowledge and an understanding of the structure and the work. However, as time has progressed I've been asked to help out with a numerous amount of different tasks, including a massive project called CARS in which I singlehandedly managed a smaller project within. I always get recognised for my efforts and always seek feedback on my work.

The programme itself started 10 months later than expected, this was a definite set back as by this time I had already got settled into a full time work role and had to manage my time to allocated a day a week to the apprenticeship. The training and studying materials are fantastic. I also have monthly meetings with the firebrand facilitator and my internal mentor to discuss progress and next steps.

As mentioned above, I have monthly meetings with the firebrand facilitator to discuss progress, any issues i'm facing and how we overcome these. The general attitude towards supporting me is great, however I think the facilitator is managing many apprenticeships therefore cannot focus as much time and attention as some would like.

I receive a lot of support my employer, as my apprenticeship requires one day a week to be focused purely on apprenticeship work, they are fully understanding of this. As the apprenticeship requires a business analyst role to complete the objectives, my manager has supported me in finding this role.

The salary meets my costs fine, as I am still living at home at the moment. In terms of travel I drive a few miles to work each day and the only cost is parking.

Lloyds banking group dedicate one day per year to every colleague to take part in a 'day to make a difference' this is a great opportunity to volunteer external as well as getting away from the office environment for some team bonding time. I also am a digital champion which means I volunteer at a primary school fortnightly attending an after school club called 'code club' helping the students become more IT aware.

Yes

Lloyds banking group is a fantastic workplace, with many different locations it is flexible as well as most teams offering flexible working with work from home initiatives. As the group itself is massive there is an endless supply of progression opportunities. As mentioned above, I have worked in two teams during my time with the business and in both the amount of support and help I've received along the way has been amazing.

For both of my roles I had to take part in an assessment centre, this included individual interviews, team interviews, and English assessments. My main piece of advice would be to prepare, prepare answers to typical job interview questions and prepare lots of examples where you have shown impressive skills. Although it is a nervous process, try to relax and take your time answering each question.