Project Assistant Review

I am currently a Project Assistant which involves assisting the lead project manager on tasks associated with the project being led. This can include the production of packs, minutes, updating of logs, liaising with stakeholders and also any governance required.

I have completed the APM foundation course, which is the precursor to the full project manager course. I have also attended courses for producing presentations and stakeholder management. I have definitely developed my skills with regards to dealing with stakeholders, giving presentations and also my knowledge of project lifecycles and governance

The programme has been enjoyable however has lasted longer than I believe it should due to the reliance on being observed and a lack of visits from my assessor. The support from my team has been excellent however

I do feel valued by Lloyds Banking Group as they have invested money in me to complete the apprenticeship. There could be better support in terms of taking the next steps in my career once the apprenticeship is complete

There seemed to be little structure behind the programme, in terms of the learning but also the visits. It seemed to be quite hard to initiate the induction but I then also changed assessor and there were no contingency plans in place if my visits were cancelled which means that for 2017 I had a total of 6 visits which meant that my overall programme took much longer than I expected.

As I said above, the support received was not really adequate given that the course is based on observation, and it should not be up to me to chase when my next visit would be. There should be contingencies in place if my assessor was off for a period of time. when I did have meets I feel that the support was good.

My manager could not be any more supportive with helping me in my role, my course and giving me time to complete any work. The only thing that I think could be improved would be a central point where I can escalate issues relating to the apprenticeship

My salary is probably adequate for the job I do, however Edinburgh is an expensive city in which to live so this could definitely be improved

There are always opportunities within Lloyds for networking events to attend, to volunteer time for charities (I complete a Day to Make a Difference each year at a local charity) and also clubs to join. There is also a gym at one of the other Lloyds buildings, not far from my own.

Yes

The level of support given has been good and they generally support colleagues. The level of pay is ok, if not exactly market leading but the overall reward package is good. There are always opportunities for further learning and also for qualifications if there is justification in the role.

Interviews are done on competency questions and as long as work is put into developing scenarios for questions then applicants will be much better prepared. There can occasionally be issues with access and time taken to be given access to things/equipment, but overall it is like starting at any large firm