Compliance Apprentice Review

by Barclays

Rating

7.4/10

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

I have had a number of roles throughout compliance.

8/10

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

I have developed many skills including improving my Excel skills, communication skill and analytical skills. I have also completed a professional qualification in Risk Management and am currently completing a qualification in Investment Banking Compliance.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I have enjoyed each of the teams I have worked in. I've been given complex tasks which have helped me develop in the role. The culture is very friendly and everyone is eager to help you when you are proactive.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Overall, the organisation of the programme could be improved as I felt I had to chase for key updates and there were numerous times I was unaware of next steps during key points of the apprenticeship.

5/10

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

All of my managers have been extremely supportive of the apprenticeship programme, helping me complete key tasks and giving me study leave. They have also been supportive in giving me tasks they think will stretch me and help me develop certain skills that I needed to evidence.

9/10

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

They have been supportive, although there seemed to be a breakdown in communication at points between the provider and company. Overall, they have been keen to answer any questions and have helped escalate any issues I faced.

7/10

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

My initial qualification could have been more tailored towards the function I was in, but overall it has helped me understand certain areas much better.

6/10

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.)

I have taken part in a number of citizenship events during my apprenticeship and there are so many available to choose from. When in the office, every team I was in had a number of social events to attend.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Barclays to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Overall the programme gives so much exposure and an opportunity to enter a function that previously felt unachievable. The teams I have worked with have made the job fun and have been so supportive during the programme.

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

For the online assessments, do some practice tests online before doing the real thing. For the interview, consider what you'd like to get out of the programme and what transferable skills you have rather than direct work experience. Always be able to show examples for any skills you have.