Project Management Degree Apprentice Review

Each year I am put in a different placement. My current placement is in project planning and controls where I learn about what happens there and partake in various activities a normal team member would. I also partake in stretch assignments which professionally develop me in areas my placement does not.

I have learnt and developed many skills in my time so far. This has included personal and professional skills, as well as practical on the job skills. For example, my excel understanding has improved dramatically, and I have also learnt to use scheduling software I knew nothing about previously. Finally, I also have developed skills in how to act professionally.

I enjoy my programme to a vast extent. This is because of all of the opportunities I am exposed to: traveling to different sites, developing new skills, meeting and networking with new people, gaining a degree, and being paid all the while, are just some of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy my programme.

My programme is very well organised and structured. From the outset apprentices were given a timeline on how the apprenticeship works during its duration. The only thing that is not set out from the start is the placements that you will get after year 1. Also, stretch assignments are not able to be planned for far in advance.

My employer provides adequate support for my needs. If I have queries I know who to go to, and they will help me as much as they can. For apprentices, a particular emphasis is made upon asking questions constantly and seeking support. I have found this to be the best support/advice given - Always ask the stupid questions, and always say yes.

They do provide and offer good levels of support that are needed and are very useful. However, I struggle to make the most of these opportunities for support as I am based quite far away from the training provider due to the location of the office I am contracted to.

The qualification is very relevant to my role, so there is what I learn from my role helps me achieve my qualification, and then what the training provider teaches me, helps me in my role. It provides me with the theoretical knowledge behind the processes that I carry out and witness in my role.

There are a few such extra curricular activities that I am able to partake in. Often these are informal social events, however, the early careers team have organised an event where early careers individuals tour different company sites and meet people there and network. This event I found very useful so I would like to do that more often.

Yes

It is a company which values its apprentices and provides a fantastic opportunity to build a career on the strongest of foundations. 5 years after getting my first job, I will have had 5 years of working in a large, international company, networked with many junior and senior colleagues, achieved a degree in my field, and received pay for all my time.

Always be open and honest. Always ask for support as it will be provided. Always ask questions if there is a hint of uncertainty. Never say no to any opportunity presented, even if it is out of your comfort zone as it will develop you further. Always contribute, as your opinion is respected and important.