Financial Crime Apprentice Review

The scheme involves working within a rotation 4 days a week and a study day 1 day a week, the study side of things is run by BPP. There is the opportunity to work within 3 placements throughout the scheme with each one being different. I am currently working within CDD and am thoroughly enjoying it.

I have developed so many skills within the 4 months working at Santander. Interpersonal skills are vital in the role especially with working from home due to the pandemic. I have learnt to be flexible, honest, reliable, as well as speak up if I am unsure and communicate with others across the bank.

I throughly enjoy the programme and would recommend it to everyone. Every day is different and there is so much to learn, the studying side is also interesting with lots of content to keep busy with on study days. Overall it’s a great scheme that has allowed me to grow in confidence.

The programme is very structured, there are 3 rotations across the scheme and we get the opportunity to choose where we would like to go next. The study days differ in each rotation however everyone within my cohort has been set one day a week to priories on studies and my current rotation allowed me to choose which day I would prefer.

I receive ongoing support from Santander and it is helping me to grow in confidence each day. The managers are extremely encouraging and patient if any questions ever need to be asked. We are assigned apprenticeship managers which are also there to oversee any queries we may have as well as keep up to date and check we are okay.

BPP provide monthly calls which give an overview of how I am performing, if I have anything I’m struggling with, feedback on work submitted and objectives to help continuous improvement and personal development. Studying independently and from home can be difficult however I make sure to prioritise my workload so I meet my deadlines!

I think having the content to study alongside working strengthens my knowledge of financial crime and if I am ever unsure of anything I can usually find the answer within the content or within my role. The course helps challenge and expand my understanding of financial crime. The research completed within study days can be utilised within our rotations.

There are endless opportunities to get involved outside of working life. Santander have adapted to working from home and have ensured employees can still join in and network with others across the bank virtually. There are various social groups and events which all employees can get involved in that are really good especially for new starters who don’t know anyone!

Yes

The welcoming I have had from everyone I have met within the bank so far has been amazing. The support that I receive from managers combined with how interesting the job role is has allowed me to really enjoy working and although it’s from home you never feel lonely as you are included in everything. You are not just seen as an apprentice but instead a valued part of the team.

I would say to be yourself, enjoy the application process as nerve racking as it can be, ask lots of questions and get involved with all of the different socials events they offer. I know virtual events can be scary however they are so supportive and want the best for you!