Barclays Degree Programme Review

On my programme, I started as an Cashier - here I worked for 6 months, supporting customers with their day to day transactions using iPads, self service devices and the traditional counter. My experience was varied and I learnt a significant amount with regards to customer service and operations. 6 months later I spent time as an Operational Banker, I was responsible for ensuring that we kept the branch open. Did we have enough cash? Security? Health & Safety etc. Personally, not the most exciting role but a very valuable experience and skill set to have. Then, I spent time as a Personal Banker and here is where my role became much more personal with customers. We didn't have "targets" to meet or any pressure as you might think. We had time to truly help customers with what they need and had some great interactions both positive and negative. For example, a customer may come in with fraud or a bereavement, it's difficult but rewarding to be the person there to support them. Or, they may be looking for a loan to fund their dream holiday or a mortgage for their first home. Again, really getting to know the customer and their situation was brilliant. Then for my favorite role, I spent 12 months as an Assistant Manager leading a team of 12 cashiers. This was a huge learning curve, it brought plenty of challenges but by far the most rewarding. At 19 years old, my team were all older... many twice my age! At first you think this may be an issue but by supporting them in the right way, you get a lot of respect.

I received a 1st Class degree in Management and Leadership, independent of Barclays. I have also completed my PRINCE2 project management qualification. The list of personal and professional skills are significant. You are provided with a lot of training and support from the business and senior leaders.

It couldn't have been any better. In my Branch Network roles the team really was a "family". I joined the company during a significant culture change which really focused on both the customer and the colleagues. My apprenticeship gave me opportunities that no other colleague would get. Within my first two months of being at Barclays, I was supported in presenting in front of 70 Branch Managers which at the time was my biggest fear but now comes second nature to me.

I have been fortunate to have some really great managers. However, it hasn't been the same for everyone and in an organisation this size it is difficult to get consistency. The management teams within the Apprenticeship can help if you have difficulties. There are some great recognition tools and lots of opportunity while on the programme to get involved in projects that give you time with senior leaders who truly value what you have to say

Difficult question to answer because over the three years the programme changed a lot. To begin with, it wasn't very organised and everyone had very different experiences but with the changes that took place over time, this got much better and from peers I speak to today, it has significantly improved. By this I mean that leaders across the business have a much better understanding and materials to support you. You can take time away to study.

We had a degree manager who was a fantastic supportive character, we then had a tutor from the university and individual lecturers for each subject. No complaints at all, everyone more than happy to help no matter what you need. Very supportive attitude and worked well even though we were all based across the UK

Again, i've been fortunate to have great managers. Some people didn't have the best but support from the wider HR and Apprenticeship teams have made this much better.

Working outside of London, my salary was more than enough to meet my costs. You start on a Cashier salary and for me it remained consistent throughout, which can be difficult when you progress and your peers get far more. However, when you consider the cost of your fully funded degree and the opportunities that you are given... it's more than worth it.

This really does depend on location. Near a big site? Then there are lots of company events throughout the year... I once went to a huge bonfire night and fair ground that was hosted on company property for all colleagues, families and friends. Across the UK one thing that is consistent is your opportunity to work within the community and raising money for charity. Strongly encouraged, programmes such as LifeSkills gets you out into local schools, Digital Eagles working with charities such as Age UK or you can do anything for a charity you care about. (match funded £4£ too!)

Yes

Care about you and your customers. Training and development opportunities are fantastic Good reward package and base pay Lots of career opportunities

You really need to care. Have the personal skills to work with your team and the right mindset. There is a real emphasis on recruiting for the person rather than the skills. You can be taught the skills.