Higher Risk Apprentice Review

During the three year long apprentice I am provided with the opportunity to explore and work within three different areas of Risk. I am provided with the necessary training to preform day to day tasks that are involved in the specific area I work for. My line manager is usually the main person that assigns me tasks to work on with deadlines on when these must be completed, I also attend various meeting both regarding the tasks that I and different members of the team work on to develop wider subject knowledge.

One of the major skills I have learnt is how to use different programs required in my role, including Zeus and SAS. I have also developed a deeper understanding and skill set whilst using Excel. I am provided with continuous internal training from online courses and readings covering the area I work within. Within my current role I have learnt how to preform some of the essential day to day functions for credit risk measurement.

I have greatly enjoyed the programme, I love working within my current team as everyone has been encouraging and helpful whilst I have been adapting to such a change. I have received training and opportunities to network on a daily basis that help me develop further understandings of my role and prepare me for a future career within Risk. In terms of the off the job training I have also enjoyed the workshops and assignments that I have had to complete.

The programme itself has been very well structured with 80% on job training and 20% off job in order to support us by providing a balance in time so that we can complete our studies. We are also encouraged to attend workshops to help familiarise ourselves with the study material and give us the opportunity to ask any questions. The on the job training is also well structured to give us an understanding of different areas of risk over the duration.

There is a lot of support provided from different parties on a continuous basis to catch up on how we are getting along and whether we require any assistance. We tend to have weekly one-on-ones with our line manager to discuss assigned tasks and weekly catch up calls with our cohort group to see how the other apprentices are getting along. There are also talent coaches provided to discuss our projects, assignments and anything else we may need help with.

We are provided with workshops, a tutor to support our independent studies and to have open discussions with on the topics we are learning and future assignments. There is also a few learning platforms, one for individuals all around the work within various positions studying the same qualification to discuss a range of topics and provide support for each other. The other platform contains tutors so that we may address any questions and queries. Our talent coach also supports us continuously with catch up calls and via email.

My qualification is very helpful towards my role as it gives be the background knowledge and base understanding of the importance of my role. It also helps familiarise me with the different terms that are used and different bodies that are of relevance within the industry and sector I work for. Working towards my qualification is helping me preform my day to day tasks to a better standard as it means I can put the theory to practice to some extent.

There are numerous activities and events going on throughout the year that we can take part in. We have events such as the annual Christmas Party. We also have the opportunity to attend different classes and tutorials online. Team meeting once in a while include quizzes that are fun for everyone to be a part of.

Yes

The environment and culture at Barclays is excellent, everyone is always there from day one not only to help you adapt to the the transition into working life but to support you and help you grow throughout. We are continuously provided with opportunities to help us stretch are reach our maximum potential in regards to building our careers. Not only that, there are plenty of opportunities outside of work to get involved in provided by Barclays.

During the application process I would advice you to be yourself and not get too in your head about the process itself. It is best to stay relaxed and participate when you can and just have fun and get to know the other candidates. The idea of an assessment day can be a little unsettling at first but it is a lot of fun and not as bad as you'd think it would be.