Financial Crime Apprentice Review

Within the role you will do different rotations, these can be all across the bank looking at different aspects of financial crime. Some roles have a set day-to-day role and others aren't as prescriptive. I have just moved onto a project where everyday can be different whereas my previous role was the same jobs.

I have developed massively since joining this apprenticeship. I have joined straight from sixth form and have felt a massive change in my personality and skillset. When moving into the bank I found that I learned to be more independent and also had a chance to improve my own development areas.

I think the apprenticeship is great. For me personally I find this course a stepping stone to where I would like to end up. The apprenticeship has allowed me to meet new people and figure out where I would like to be. I have thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship so far.

It is well structured. We have a learning provider (BPP) which set out a learning plan for the entire course and delivered this to us at the start of our training so we could plan our time effectively. When looking at rotations within the role you find out your next placement a month before you move so you know where you'll be and who your manager is.

You receive a huge amount of support from Santander. At the beginning of the apprenticeship you are given your own apprenticeship manager, these are individuals who already have a role within the business and they are your own personal manager to help you with anything you need. You also have access to a team of individuals who are set out to help you along with a buddy from a previous cohort.

When doing this course you have two training providers. One is BPP and one is the ICA. You receive a large amount of help from BPP with regards to training in the form of a personal coach and monthly 121 calls. With the ICA you are expected to work through the materials on your own however there are sessions held and help is available if you seek it out.

There are three qualifications within this role. With regards to the ICA qualifications these are two certificated in Anti-Money Laundering, this helps you in your every day role when looking at suspicious behaviour. The assignments done with BPP allow you to get a certification for a L3 risk and compliance officer, these assignments develop your skills and portfolio.

There are always things to get involved with. Due to COVID it is harder to get stuck in however there are loads of communities to help you. When joining you will have access to the Graduate and Apprentice Network, they will put on socials and help sessions to get you integrated into the bank.

Yes

The experience I have had so far has been amazing. I have joined during the pandemic and the way that they dealt with that has been commendable. I have felt supported and comfortable throughout the whole of my journey. Everyone within the bank is also friendly and happy to support you on your journey.

When applying to Santander make sure you have the passion, this is a massive element of the business. We have 9 set behaviours a couple of them are bring passion, embrace change and give support. As long as you embrace the behaviours and you are your true self you should be absolutely fine.