Higher Apprentice Review

I have three rotations throughtout the programme, starting at the bottom and working my way up. I have begun as an essential banker and am now moving onto the moment banker position. My role includes a lot of customer contact by working on the counter and serving customers. The next role will be office based.

I have learnt new skills, especially organisation and time management as juggling working full time and my degree has been problematic at times.. Working within the business has also taught me a lot to do with myself and what I would like to do following the programme in three years time.

I do enjoy the programme as working full time and doing a degree is what I have always wanted to do, and my colleagues are very kind. However, I do find it very stressful and sometimes have had little understanding from others what my course is about. Esepcially other managers.

From Anglia Ruskins perspective it is very structured, however, within the business I have felt like the rotations have not always materialised and that I am often taken for granted doing the essential banker role due to staff shortages. I feel that this has held back my development and prevented me from moving on.

Both my old and new line manager have been very supportive of the programme that I am currently on and have made a conscious effort to catch up with me to understand how I feel I am getting on. My new line manager has said he has got lots of plans to help further my progression.

I am dyslexic so have to ask for additional support a lot of the time. Support is only there if we reach out to it as otherwise we are left to get on with it when not at university, but are supported if we ask. My personal tutor has been fantastic.

I feel that the qualification as yet is more to help develop managerial competencies and because I am still on my first rotation I have had little opportunity to demonstrate that in a professional environment as of yet. Hopefully once I begin to move into the OM position I will have the chance to show this.

Professional networking events are advertised so I have been involved in a number of those both within the branch and within corporate. We have had colleague social activities from time to time. We don't have any sports teams as of yet but do try to organise activities to include everyone.

Yes

I would recommend it because although it is very stressful in parts, there is a great opportunity for development and enables a lot of doors to open. The work itself is very hands on and there is a lot of room for new learning. However, I would recommend an apprenticeship not based in the branch.

Before applying make sure you are happy with lots of additional work and putting in extra hours for both university and work when needed. Time management is key and there is a lot of work to do so ensure you don't go in naïve as sometimes it is verydifficult but you have to stay positive.