Digital & Technology Apprentice Review

My role involves me learning key skills such as coding (JavaScript/React) and applying them to ground built applications by NatWest - refining and creating additional features in applications for our clients to use. The role is not restricted to this alone, and can vary depending on what I want to do/learn.

Definitely. Prior to joining this programme I had no knowledge or experience in working within technology - specifically no coding knowledge or practice. Upon starting, I have successfully learnt HTML, CSS, JavaScript and currently am learning React, so that it can be applied to my day to day role. I have also developed my soft skills and find it much easier to interact with new people.

I do not believe that there is a better programme out there. From all of my previous experience applying to apprenticeships (almost 2 years), although other organisations have come across friendly, nothing quite comes close to how welcoming NatWest has been with their inclusive and helpful nature from all employees I've met so far.

The programme is very well structured and has been made clear from the start as to what we can expect moving forward. Our training sessions allowed us to ease into our new roles and support received has made sure I've been comfortable along the way. There are buddy/mentoring systems also setup to help iron out any problems.

We receive as much help as we ask for, and more. Help is something which is not a difficult thing to ask for since everyone is friendly and easy going. My manager is very understanding and doesn't try to overburden me with things to do, as well as gives me the time if I need to balance my Uni learning with work.

My training provider (QA) have their own support teams and points of contact who are there every step of the way. This means if there is ever any struggle it's easy to access the team and obtain the support needed. Everybody seems happy to help and there have been no issues with them since starting.

The qualification allows me to learn context behind some of the real life problems and changes being made in the industry. The training is where some of the knowledge is also learned which can then be applied to my day to day role in working for NatWest - some coding knowledge can also be applied with starting the course of software engineering.

Yes. Although it has been difficult in meeting people face to face, NatWest have put together lots of different networking opportunities for us as apprentices and hosted a variety of activities to allow us to get to know each other better. There are also internal communities in which we have the ability to join and create new relationships within the wider organisation.

Yes

From starting till now, there has not been one negative experience. From everyone's friendly nature to the skills learnt and invaluable experience gained it is a much better alternative that going to University. As the programme is 4 years long it is also vital to choose an organisation which treats you well - something which NatWest does easily.

Try to be yourself. When applying to corporate jobs it's easy to put on an image of being perfect, but this isn't always necessary. NatWest is welcoming to a variety of different characters and it's much easier to connect with people when you are not focusing on trying to be professional. Always ask questions and remember to do your research.