Higher Technology Apprentice Review

by Barclays

Rating

8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I provide security support to our internal infrastructure teams to allow them to maintain and run Level 1 systems.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

This apprenticeship has allowed me to develop many skills, not just technical ones. You learn to work with different people who could be based anywhere in the world and you also learn how to build a professional portfolio of yourself which can help you in the future.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy working for this company. The program allows for very clear career progression and the skills you learn on this program will benefit you in whatever job you have.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The program is very well organised with objectives set regularly and plenty of support available to guide you should you need it.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

The support available is excellent as there are many people who can help you if you need it. Support can be anything from a chat about mental health wellbeing to getting extra time in work hours to do University work.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

As well as the support from your lecturers, there are Skills coaches on hand who can help with almost anything to do with University. Even during Covid-19 when we have been learning from home, the level of support is excellent.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Some of the things which you learn at University are not directly related to your role in the company. However, the knowledge you gain from lecturers provides a good solid platform for many different subjects, and you learn skills such as presenting which can really help in a work scenario.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are plenty of things to get involved in on site. We have tennis courts, rugby teams, a gym, running clubs and many more. There are also plenty of events going on to allow for networking as well as chances to volunteer to help out with school visits etc.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Barclays to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Overall it is an excellent place to work and you get the sense that they genuinely care about you as an individual and the skills that you learn will help in your career at Barclay's but also carry over to any other job which you might move to in the future.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Barclays?

Research the company and take some notes on what we stand for. When you have an interview whether that be face to face or a video interview, do your best to show that you have invested your time into learning about the company. This shows your commitment which is very important.