Distributed Operator Review

Day-to-day I deal with any alerts that come out regarding any issues with any servers that RBS use. I then have to run some diagnostics and inform the server owner teams and they will pick up the alerts up from there. This means that we work closely with a lot of other teams internally and externally.

I have learnt a very large range of skills since starting at RBS. I had very basic technical skills and with the training that BPP have provided and the internal training that I have received I now have a fairly wide range of technical skills. I still have a long way to go.

I enjoy my programme in the sense that I enjoy the content and my job role. I do not enjoy the other hassle that comes with the BPP apprenticeship. I am fully aware that a few things that have happened have been outwith BPP's control. If RBS went with another provider I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship programme to others.

BPP have not organised nor structured the programme very well at all. The modules are released at different times each month which makes it very difficult to keep track of when work is due. We don't get much notice for training days that are taking place (and are mandatory). My tutor recently left without informing anybody so all the students were completely left in the lurch. These are just a few of the issues we have all experienced.

RBS support apprentices 100%. We have allocated time each week to complete any outstanding work. Any issues that we have had have been communicated to the head of the apprentice programme and rectified in a timely manner. If there have been any major issues the head of the programme has either set up a call with all the apprentices or set up a face to face meeting to try and solve any of the issues.

At first there was a lot of support, our tutor was new to the job and had more that 30 students to keep in touch with so I appreciate that it was difficult for him to juggle that. But recently he left without warning and since then we have received little to no support from BPP. However, they are trying to improve this.

The first year of my apprenticeship wasn't really relevant to my role but after voicing my concern about this BPP have helped to tailor the second year (as best they can) to my role. The training sessions I have had so far this year have helped massively with my day-to-day role.

There are a lot of extra-curricular activities within RBS. At this present time I do not attend any but I plan to in the future. There are photography clubs, food clubs, skiing clubs. The list is endless. As for professional networking events, there are also large numbers of groups that you can join for example RBS Women Network.

Yes

I think that RBS is a great place to work, there is something for everyone here, not just technology. You are fully supported in everything you do, there is always training available and ways to better yourself. As an apprentice I am encouraged to attend training events held here in Gogarburn as it gives me a good understanding of everything that goes on here.

When applying to RBS always do your research on the bank. This will impress interviewers and it shows that you are keen to learn. Be open and honest at every stage, this will show you as a genuine person. Do not be disheartened if you don't get it first time, don't give up!