Business Support Apprentice Review

I am a business support apprentice, and my role consists mostly of working on projects within Fujitsu. I make sure that documents for projects are created that detail, for example, the objectives, scope, justification for and background of a project, or a document that details what products are needed for a project and what risks may occur as the project progresses. I also take part in meetings on projects that I am working on to see where the projects are at, any obstacles that are in the way and what the next steps may be.

I would say that my typing skills have improved significantly, and also I believe that my communication skills have improved, as there are employees of all ages and learning to adapt my use of language to different situations and environments. New skills I have learnt are perhaps technical skills - coding or the ability to understand industry-specific language.

So far, I am enjoying my programme/apprenticeship. I think that it is a good opportunity and an equal alternative to university, and allows me to gain worthwhile experience that perhaps graduates would not have in first going into the workplace. I think that the training has been very helpful and my colleagues are very kind and willing to help if needed.

Though there have been setbacks at times, I would say that my programme has been organised well enough for me to be included in on a project only some weeks after I started. The gradual increase of a workload I think is better than having much work thrust upon me, and I have had meetings from since I have started till now on different documents I would need to familiarise myself with in managing projects.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. There is a lot of training opportunities that have helped me better understand the technical side of the projects that I am a part of, as well as (if it answers the question) my manager also gives me much support and time to help me do my work to the best of my ability.

I would say that the support I receive from my training provider is adequate enough. My emails are not always answered as quickly as I'd like but otherwise I am satisfied with the support I am given towards my qualifications. It would be nice to have more support, but I think I am on track to get a reasonable grade in my qualifications and do well (work to a good quality).

I think that the Level 3 Business Administration qualification will not be as applicable to my role as the Level 4 Project Management qualification I am supposed to do next year. The goal at the end of my apprenticeship is to become a Project Manager and not an administrator, but skills such as communication skills, organisation skills, etc. I'm sure will be helpful.

There are extra-curricular activities that I could take part in, such as a running club, table tennis, a strolling club, etc. There perhaps could be more, but I think because of the location of the business and perhaps interest as well, there is not (as far as I know) much more than this than the odd outing.

Yes

I would recommend Fujitsu to a friend for various reasons. One reason is the ability to work flexibly as well as the ability to work at home or in the office is helpful for working parents or carers. I think also the environment is good, in that colleagues are helpful, friendly and kind.

I think I would say that it goes beyond simply having the qualifications that means that you fit the job criteria. I think that if you apply for a role, not necessarily knowing much about the business or area you are applying for, but are capable and willing to learn and grow, then you can excel and do well at interview.