Leadership and Management Degree Apprentice Review

After supporting customers and taking on different customer facing roles in the branch I am now in a management role. In my current role I do a lot of observations and work with the team to develop them. I also look for opportunities to change the way we do things to improve performance and customer experience.

I learnt a lot about banking and by doing various roles have gained great insight into process, policies and how banking works. As part of each role I have had internal training and support from colleagues which has helped a lot with my development. Personally I have grown a lot and have been pushed out of my comfort zone to take on tasks that gave me skills that I can use anywhere for the rest of my career. Alongside work I am also doing my management degree which teaches me how to think bigger and find ways to drive change within the organisation. There is also a great personal development aspect to the program which helps me to develop self-awareness, people skills and leadership skills which will give me a great advantage wherever my career goes.

The program, company and people are great. Like anything there are areas for improvement but as this is a leadership and management program I learn a lot about how to change things and make them better for the future.

The degree side of the program is very well structured with plenty of support available. At work there is support available but managers do not always fully understand the program which can make it difficult for them to support.

Support is always available when I need it

All tutors are very helpful when it comes to supporting me with my qualifications. The only thing that can be a challenge is the lack of face to face access but you get used to working remotely and accessing support using emails.

The degree is very focused on management and leadership and not on banking which can feel a bit disconnected at the start. However it helped me a lot with developing a leadership perspective and mindset which prepared me for my leadership role.

I have not been involved with any extra-curricular activities but I know that if you look hard enough you will find opportunities to get involved with.

Yes

It's a great organisation with a strong focus on developing people and technology. In addition to this you are well looked after with benefits to take care of your health and wellbeing.

Be yourself! Be clear about what you want from the program and go after it. This will help you to perform well at every stage of the recruitment process and on the program. Do not expect to be spoonfed but ask for help and reach out for support.