Apprentice Data Analyst Review

Currently I work within the bank's Finance Data Control team, working on the promotion of a tool to help it trace data lineage. Daily tasks vary a lot, depending on business need, but mainly involve working with Excel spreadsheets and attending meetings.

Yes, including: *Excel *PowerPoint *Stakeholder management/influencing *Organising my time

There is a lot to learn and the work provides exposure to an area of banking that is rarely seen in most banking functions, i.e. the Bank's treasury functions. The employer is dedicated to learning and development as well as well-being. Steep learning curve but rewarding.

From day one, I received mentorship from an experienced analyst within the team, introducing us to the department and providing the background knowledge to do the job. NatWest is supportive in allowing time to study and learn. Work has been fast-paced but balanced.

My manager has been very accommodating in dealing with queries and requests and has regular catch up meetings scheduled with me. The bank has generally been open in dealing with any questions and has a dedicated support network for apprentices and graduates.

Regular meetings are scheduled with the tutor, who meets with me every two months or so. I've had two such meetings so far, where they explained what was required to complete some of the generic modules involved with the apprenticeship.

I haven't had the opportunity yet to complete the more technical modules that relate directly to data analysis. The first module is for the level 6 IT and telecommunications qualification, and involved networking, which does not directly relate to my role, but which is worth a background understanding.

The bank provides ample opportunities to socialise, including sports and company events and activities, as well as providing time off to get involved in charity work. Currently I am working remotely, but even so the company intranet advertises these activities. My own hobbies include nature trail walks and gaming.

Yes

They're a well established employer with plenty of areas to get involved in and exposed to, and so make for an excellent launching point for a career change. They're also a supportive and well resourced employer.

Think carefully about each CPC and have an example or two prepared for it; be ready to undergo further probing about it as the interviewer seeks to understand your answer better. When applying for data analytics roles, consider that there is a consultative element to them.