Finance Apprentice Review

My role as a finance apprentice involves working in six different finance-related placements across 2 years. These include placements in cash management; accounting; and an operational placement too. I started in a role where I was responsible for chasing outstanding debt, owed to TFL by companies who we had completed works for. I then moved departments, where I was tasked with processing invoices received by TFL from our suppliers who we owe monies too. Currently, my role involves reconciling London Underground ticket sales to monies we receive in our bank accounts.

My Microsoft Office skills have improved dramatically since starting at TFL, particularly Excel. My general IT skills have also improved, as we rely heavily on emails to communicate, and make use of Microsoft Word and Excel. Regularly using software systems such as SAP has also enhanced my skills in IT. I shall be attending an external training course in Excel to further develop my skills. The study element of the apprenticeship has definitely improved my skills and knowledge in economics and accountancy. Perhaps the biggest skill I have developed is my communication skill. As you move across placements, you meet so many different people across the business, so communication skills are massively enhanced.

I am thoroughly enjoying my programme. Everyone I have met at TFL has been so supportive and is so keen for you to develop your skills and understanding. There are staff network groups you can be a part of; graduates and apprentices are regularly invited to events such as site visits, which can help expand your network and develop an understanding TFL as a wider organisation. The placements are enjoyable, and encourage you to learn as much as possible. There is an inviting and relaxed culture in the workplace, which made me feel very comfortable.

So far, I have had no issues with the structure of my programme. My placement managers have ensured that I have everything I need before I start (access to certain systems etc.) so I have had no obstacles holding me back. At the start of my placements, we establish a plan which organises what I will be learning, in order to fully utilise the time I have.

TFL provide an exceptional amount of support to their employees. My line manager has been fantastic and has sorted out any queries I have had. I have regular meetings with my manager where we discuss my progress relating to placements, study and anything else. TFL has a very helpful HR team who you can call up anytime to discuss any issues you have. Apprentices are assigned a buddy, who you can go to for any support you need too. Overall, the support I have received at TFL so far has been great.

Our training provider, Kaplan, have been really supportive. You attend classroom sessions to learn the content for your exams, led by a tutor. You are assigned a Talent Coach, who regularly monitors your progress throughout the qualification. Kaplan have support basically running all day every day , so you don't need to be in the office to contact them. So far I haven't needed to contact them specifically, but they have offered support since day 1.

So far, it is difficult to say, the content I am currently learning in my qualification (relating to accountancy) is somewhat related to the work I have been doing. The content I have learnt has definitely given me a deeper understanding of TFL as an organisation. As I progress through the content, I am sure I will be able to apply that knowledge to my placements.

Grads and Apprentices have the opportunity to attend loads of different events such as site visits. There is a committee which hosts these events, which can include talks from guest speakers across TFL. There are staff network groups (e.g. LGBT network group, Mental Health network) which hold social events you can attend.

Yes

I believe the experience you can gain from this scheme, along with the qualifications, is invaluable and puts you in good stead for a long and rewarding career in finance. The staff benefits are the best I've ever seen. Free travel across the TFL network, along with discount on a season ticket (I live outside London, so the discount has saved me thousands, literally!) Everyone is so supportive and the work culture is great. I've met so many people and made new friends along the way (who loves after work drinks just like me!).

During the application process, just be yourself. It sounds so cliche but if you let your true personality shine through then this will really impress the people assessing you. If successful, then grab every opportunity thrown your way (and there is lots of them!). Most importantly, work hard and smart. If you have not studied for a while, then it may feel overwhelming at first, but if you manage your work effectively, then you won't have a problem and will succeed in your role.