1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

As a data science apprentice by day to day role includes working on data driven projects, assisting and helping the data teams in the bank. I use coding languages such as Python and SQL daily when working on projects to find value in data and build necessary models to meet requirements.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt many skills since the start of my apprenticeship. I had no prior data science or analytics knowledge or experience and I know feel confident using different coding languages such as Python and SQL. I have also improved my soft skills such as presenting and engaging with stakeholders.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy the apprenticeship programme. I have been able to work with lots of different people and teams within the bank and I have had the opportunity to contribute to many different projects where I have gained lots of technical and soft skills. I have found both the study and work aspect of the apprenticeship great.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is very well organised. We have designated study time to ensure we are prioritising study as well as our work time. The course is well structured with deadlines and goals set for us to achieve. Also my managers and colleagues have been great at ensuring I have the time away from work when it’s needed for study.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive lots of support from my employer. We have lots of figures looking after us and they are always offering any support I might need. My mangers and colleagues are supportive for my apprenticeship and understand that I need to prioritise work and study. Overall, I feel very much supported from Santander.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I receive appropriate support from my training provider. They make sure to check in on us regularly to make sure we are on track and to offer support if I have any troubles or worries. They have alway been very approachable so I know the support is there if I need it.

9/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I feel my qualification helps me a lot in my role. It’s nice to put the skills and knowledge I have learnt from my studies into my daily role at work and to see what I am learning in the classroom is coming into use away from the classroom

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes there’s lots of extra curricular activities to get involved with. Even with the pandemic, my employer has ensured there’s still virtual networking events to keep people’s morale up. There’s a graduate and apprentice network that hosts regular events so we can spend time with others who are on similar schemes.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Santander to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Santander is a great employer for a degree apprenticeship. I have no complaints about the work or study side of the programme. My employer has been amazing at supporting me on the apprenticeship. I have been able to contribute to lots of different projects and work with lots of different people whilst on the programme. I have gained so many technical and business skills.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Santander?

Definitely apply! My whole experience has been great with Santander. Working whilst studying for a degree is the best way to do it! I get to put the skills I’m learning into practice every day and the business and people skills I am gaining, I would not be able to get from just studying for a degree.

Data science apprentice Review

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Credit Analyst