Degree Apprentice Review

My current role is in digital transformation in corporate banking on the end-to-end workstream. This involves continually improving the corporate banking system by designing, implementing and governing new pieces of functionality for our users. This means we have to complete the governance for the change, the technical configurations, the testing and the support post implementation.

I have learnt all about the world of corporate banking, and how this differs to retail banking. Also about the world of credit, about how a business starts enquiring about a loan all the way to them completing their application and receiving their money. I have learnt how to make technical configurations in Salesforce, a market-leading CRM system and much more!

I thoroughly enjoy my programme, especially the fact that we're on six to nine month rotations and there is the flexibility to experience and have the opportunity to do nearly anything that sparks your interest. The only downside I could think of is often I find myself working 60/70 hour weeks to ensure my placement work and university work are up to the highest standards.

The structure is really good and a real credit to Santander and the team that look after us. We started off by doing three six month rotations and then do four nine month rotations. We have dedicated study time for our degree that allows us to escape from our work to focus on our education.

We have a dedicated team who are called Emerging Talent. They provide a really good amount of support and are always there if you need anything. They provide a centralised hub for all apprentices on the schemes with any concerns, feedback or help. This may range from placement advice, any university concerns or just general well-being.

With our current provider we have a dedicated two week study block which is where we are taught the content for a particular module. Then we tend to have 6-7 weeks where we have to complete coursework based on this learning. The support is good for the two weeks but once we have had that then often you feel quite isolated.

Universities are often behind the times with current up to date working practices. I think this qualification (Digital Technology degree) helps to bridge the gap but there is definitely more work to be done. I have not directly used any hard skills I've learnt in my roles, however I've definitely taken some soft skills like communication.

Santander is well-known both internally and externally for all the amazing opportunities it offers, especially outside of work. There are numerous networks, teams organise hiring out sporting venues and even when COVID hit Santander organised an online gaming tournament with large cash prizes up for grabs for the winners. Every week there seems to be a different focus for this.

Yes

Santander is a very inclusive organisation, offering fair and equal opportunities to everyone. They care about your develop and want you to succeed alongside them. They are a very flexible company and will accommodate to suit your needs - whilst wanting to challenge you and get the best from you at the same time.

The most important thing is to be yourself - Santander hires people. As much as academic results and a CV goes a long way, also the type of person you are and whether you come across as someone who will apply themselves to any given task plays a large part as well.