Project Support Officer Review

My current role is based around supporting projects at a secure client in the Central Government sector. The projects I support are IT based and my daily tasks include updating project work books and attending stand-up meetings. I will then receive ad-hoc actions to complete depending on the phase of the project

I have learnt a great deal in terms of how to communicate better with people in the workplace and also just a general knowledge about businesses and how they run projects. This has developed my confidence and my ability to make constructive comments in the work-place to improve existing processes.

I certainly enjoy the working aspect of the programme as the interactions with people in the office are great. I enjoy working client site, and the people in the office have been very welcoming to me as a young apprentice. My experience in CGI offices has been limited since I joined so I cannot really speak for them.

Unfortunately I have not found the course to be as well structured as I had hoped judging by the initial induction days. I feel this is more from the University side rather than the CGI side as the University lecturing standards feel very sub-par. Some lecturers are great but I can truthfully say I would have benefited by not going to certain lectures. It is a shame as there is such potential but the organisation seems to not be in place to communicate exactly what is required from the students

In my personal experience, not too much. However I believe I am in the minority for lacking support when comparing to the rest of the people on the program. Where my peers are often in CGI offices they can have a good point of contact such as a mentor or manager. Where I am fully client site and do not see much of a mentor, it is hard for me to receive much support, although I'm sure it could be arranged if I felt I needed it.

Similarly to my comments in the question around structure. The levels of support vary so much between lecturers, where some are great and others are very poor. It has often been difficult to get clear answers on what is required from us and there is very little support from the trainer in place to help this

Unfortunately very little. I had easily learned 2 years worth of course content within 2 months at the office with the exception of the more technical modules as these were more bespoke. The general business modules have done very little to develop me within the workplace which is a shame.

I did in the first year where I was trying my best to network with peers. However where I live a minimum 2 hour drive away from the rest of my colleagues it can be quite a struggle to see them which is why the 2nd year has been less productive in terms of extra-curricular activities. However plenty of activities were available

Yes

I still think the work side gives a great introduction to business and the ability to have a 3 year head start on other degree students is a huge benefit. It also makes your CV look great and turns you to a very employable person by the end of it.

Truthfully I cannot remember too much of the interview days. In interviews, I tend to just be myself which I think is the best way to see whether you are suited for the job or not. I would recommend moving closer to the workplace/uni if it is within your budget.