Graduate Data Analyst Review

My job role entails financial forecasting; using statistical modelling and machine learning methods. It also includes creating and running BI for the team, to which I'm based in. All of which is undertook in a programming language called R; which I learnt during the apprenticeship scheme. I am given long-term projects, as well as short -term; both of which are given with a lot of freedom and scope - Which allows me to manage my own time well and take the time to learn new methods increasing the efficiency in the tasks.

During the apprenticeship scheme; i learnt a new statistical programming language called R. This was learnt both in the workplace and through the apprenticeship program at Newcastle University. There are also a lot of soft skill modules included in the apprenticeship program; such as leadership and change management. Both of which i have had no previous exposure to, so it is refreshing to be able to improve these skills as well as the harder skills (data science skills).

The team has been very welcoming; and supportive in my development. The company culture very much focuses on the development of its employees; thus I have been allowed and given the time to progress through the apprenticeship program. The apprenticeship scheme has exceeded my expectations; originally it was planned for me to be on a lower level program, but after a discussion with my management and the head of the early talent program i was placed on a higher scheme - which is a lot more challenging!

The program is very well structured as the scheme has been in place for a few years; meaning it has been ironed out to suit the new starters as best as it can. There was a two week induction where we got to meet other new starters, which was great! We are also allowed a day a week to study towards the scheme that we are completing - Meaning i am able to balance education and work.

I receive a lot of support from my manager; and am able to go to them with any problems that i have. The early talent team have been very supportive; as this is the team that manage all of the new starters that join the company! The company also has a mentor scheme for all of the new starters, this allows the new starters to go to other employees outside there team for advice about the company.

The training provider provides an excellent program; that includes mostly lectures. This is put on by Newcastle University - Having just left university it is a great transition from education to work; having the ability to still undertake a program from a university. They provide a personal tutor for help and guidance on the coursework, but also to help you introduce ideas into the workplace, that you have learnt on the course. I am currently really enjoying the course!

The qualification is the equivalent of a masters program; this has meant that it's been a great transition having just left university - as my undergraduate was in Economist and the program in Data science. The apprenticeship teaches a lot of skills that are not even currently used in the business; this means that the program really adds value to the company where I work. Instead of playing catch-up to the other employees, i can really benefit the team.

There was a welcome week when we first joined the company which entailed quite a few events, where we were able to meet our fellow employees who had also just joined the 'early talent' scheme. There is a volunteers scheme in place where we can volunteer as a tea, to help various organisations in the community - which is very rewarding to do. There is also a gym in the office; which we are able to use during lunch!

Yes

Newcastle Building Society is a great place to start your career; there ethos on 'investing in you' is very much meant. This is especially the case for apprenticeships as they are a living wage company; meaning that apprentices are able to earn a wage that they are able to live on, whilst also enduring more education. As a mutual it is very rewarding that customer satisfaction is very much at the core of what we do as a company,.

Try and be yourself on the application process and make sure to say what you think that you will bring to the business. The Assessment centre is very well done and relaxed; so that you are able to perform to your best. Make sure to make the most of the process and ask for feedback on your performance; so even if you don't make the grade, you are able to improve your process for other opportunities.