Apprentice Data Analyst Review

My role involves the management and development of financial transactional models, systems and data for business events and group accounting purposes, as well as the support of projects due to my team's extensive end-to-end knowledge of the life-cycle of financial data as it passes through the bank. Daily duties also involve the checking of these systems to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Yes, I have greatly expanded my IT and accounting knowledge. My skills in analysis have massively improved as it is a common function in my role. My capabilities with different accounting and data software have also improved in line with my work. Time management has also improved, in this role I am responsible for my own calendar management and it is something I really enjoy and have taken to well. Specific to my apprenticeship courses already taken I have also improved my general IT skills and specifically knowledge of networks and how data is interpreted and handled by computer interfaces.

To a massive extent, I've really enjoyed learning about the different systems and operations within the bank as well as the chance to make a real impact and have an active role in driving positive change for NatWest Group. The apprenticeship coursework itself has also been extremely enjoyable and the assessors provided by QA have been expert and fantastic in their subjects and teachings.

I'm very new to my programme having started in February this year, however at this point I feel the programme is very well structured. Basic concepts and teachings are given first before moving onto more complex topics which build on this learning. Due to this the learning in each course has remained relatively easy to manage and certainly does not feel like I'm being tasked with the impossible on my courses.

I receive great support from NatWest Group in my apprenticeship course. This includes scheduled 'study time' during working hours where I can focus on and complete apprentice learning. My colleagues are all already very skilled in many of the areas of my studies and so I also arrange time with them to discuss or learn about certain topics which they are happy to find time to accommodate at the drop of a hat.

The support from Apprenticeship Provider - QA - has been excellent and as stated the assessors are highly skilled and brilliant in their teaching. The assessors have been great at given spoken lessons, QA learning resources and even general useful resources to assist me. If I'm struggling or require time to discuss a topic they are always available to arrange a quick chat or meeting to discuss anything in more detail.

I think my qualification helps massively in performing my role. My course and job title are almost the same, many of the courses and teachings from the apprenticeship transfer directly to my duties working for NatWest Group. While there are courses not directly related to my duties there are still teachings to be found and practices that will help me to perform better.

The impact of Covid-19 has, of course, massively impacted this aspect of work. Despite this, NatWest Group has been very active in maintaining such events where possible through virtual means. I personally have attended very many such professional networking events virtually in my short time as an apprentice here! Social activities are also offered where restrictions allow and hopefully this will not only continue but increase once restrictions end.

Yes

NatWest Group is a great business to work for, employee benefits are many, pay is very fair and NatWest has a real drive for upskilling, training and improving employees. NatWest offers great support for you to find what you would like to do or enjoy doing most to help the organisation reach its goals. The purpose of the organisation is also very important today, including the support of communities and of entrepreneurs across the UK - Especially given the impact of Covid-19 on the country. NatWest is also very focused on the climate and is working to help challenge climate change through its business decisions, as well as supporting all customers and connected entities to do so also.

My apprenticeship at NatWest was a very competitive position and I feel very lucky to be in this role today. My advice would be to do your research on the company and what it champions, how that aligns with you and what you are passionate about. How do your experiences and beliefs align with the NatWest purpose and the proposed apprenticeship? Interviews may require you to give situations or events that have occurred in your academic or professional career and it is really important not only to explain how these are relevant to the interviewing questions but why this is important for you and for NatWest Group. What have you learned from it? Who did it it impact and how? Did this result in improvements to your work, relationships or otherwise? - Relating your experiences to your core skills and showing passion in what you do is essential in applying to NatWest Group.