Apprentice Review

My role was in the Marine Cargo department and was to help provide for our clients involved in transport and storage needs. This consisted of many technical support and document producing responsibilities in order to provide good customer service for our clients, as well as support my team in any way possible day-to-day.

I have developed many skills and behaviors throughout the 18 month apprenticeship which has helped network with new individuals, support more clients and develop my confidence and determination in the insurance industry. New skills which I have picked up have helped developed in my role as they have been insurance based to tailor for specific knowledge and business needs.

I enjoyed the beginning to my apprenticeship as the programme begun with a workshop introduction weeks to meet the Early Careers team and other apprentices based in all offices over the UK. This helped to begin networking and meeting new faces that will be in the same position. I also enjoyed the new lifestyle of working in the office environment and working with my team, however it has been hindered by the COVID pandemic and stopping myself from making the most of the experience.

The programme had a good structure in terms of the companies involvement and interaction with apprentices. The events were organised at the beginning of the apprenticeship, but it can be said that the CII workshops and exams lacked structure. Overall, the 18 month programme gave a great time frame to gain a lot of skills and knowledge.

Many individuals within the organisation where there to support and provide any help or resources where necessary which gave myself a great start and reassurance for the future. The employer has also organised specific sessions and provided contacts to continue this support and help apprentices know where they can reach out too.

The training provider was extremely helpful getting our learning underway during the introduction sessions at the joining workshop at the beginning of the porgramme and at the first office based workshop too, working towards our qualification. However, it became apparent there was not much extensive support during the COVID pandemic.

I personally feel that my performance in my role has been based on the development and knowledge I have picked up through experience working in the office and with my team, instead of through the qualifications. Although, it has allowed a further understanding of insurance based terms and situations on the job.

During the first few months there was plenty of interaction with apprentices and colleagues to encourage attending networking events and getting involved in social activities. This was positive and I was able to network in some circumstances before the pandemic, which therefore interrupted these developments and forced the organisation to work remotely.

Yes

It is a great company that strives for success across all areas, involving all colleagues and always looking for solutions to become better. Not only do they have a great reputation and are a vast organisation in the insurance industry and the world, they are also for the people and have the resources and people to help your career forward.

It is best to always be yourself as that is who they will be meeting and working besides on a day-to-day basis, but most importantly to portray all your best characteristics which includes your determination and enthusiasm for insurance or any task that may be required of you but also the commitment to work for Aon.