Human Resources Apprentice Review

I work in Employee Relations so it differs everyday, which keeps it interesting. I support my team with tasks such as taking minutes, putting packs together, assisting with organizing important meetings and answering queries which come to the team via email. I am also studying for my CIPD level 3 which I have allocated time for each week, away from my desk.

I feel I have developed my communication skills, as I have to reach out to and meet employees at all levels across the bank, either here in London or across the globe.

I really enjoy the programme as everyone is so nice and willing to help. My team are so supportive in my studying and always ensure I am taking all the time I am given to study. They are always looking for things they can involve me in and provide me with feedback on the work I complete. However, the qualification provider is not always the best. Sometimes it can be hard to get the right information if you are stuck on a section of your module.

The course is clearly structured. You have to complete a new module every 4-8 weeks, which can be a practical or essay. There are 6 modules to complete in total. As well as the CIPD, you also have the apprenticeship side which is with another provider. For this, you have to update a development plan and reflective tracker. There is a lot of work to do, and you do not get a break between each module. Once you have completed one assignment it rolls onto the next on straight away. This can make it difficult to book annual leave.

I receive so much support. My team all shows interest in my qualification and are always looking to see what they can involve me in at work which can help with my course. My line manager is also keen to help and always checking my workload isn't too much so I can have my study time.

Not much. As it's all online it can be difficult to get any guidance as you have to wait for them to reply to emails. We have online support sessions, but only around 2 per module. Lots of people are on the call at once so questions can be missed.

Not a lot as my day-to-day job helps me get exposer to HR. This can be through shadowing or any work my team give me. We haven't reached the module for Employee Relations yet so what I have learnt for my role so far hasn't been from the my training provider.

There are lots of networks you can get involved in! The company also does lots of charity work so there is always an opportunity to do some volunteering.

Yes

The culture is great. Everyone is so friendly and makes you feel so welcome and supported, which is important when starting a new job in an organization as big as UBS.

Research the company and the role you will be going into.