HR Higher Apprenticeship Review

In this role, I provide administrative support to different UK Talent Acquisition teams on day-to-day and project tasks, while completing a CIPD Level 5 HR Consultant/Partner apprenticeship qualification with Babington Business College. These teams range from Employer Branding and Recruitment Marketing to Talent Acquisition Partners.

As the apprenticeship is rotational, I have developed new and existing skills. One main personal and professional skill I have developed is communication, which is fundamental in HR. I have communicated with different stakeholders, such as hiring managers and candidates and have improved/altered my communication style along the way.

I really enjoy the programme because of its varied and challenging nature. Firstly, I rotate around different Talent Acquisition teams to learn about their responsibilities and goals, and how I can best add value to the respective team. Also, I learn about how the HR function works through my studies.

Overall, the programme is well structured and organised. I was concerned about how many rotations I would do because I started the programme during COVID-19. However, my line manager has gone through leaps and bounds to get me involved in multiple rotations and gain lots of work experience.

I regularly receive brilliant support from multiple employees as part of the programme: my line manager, rotation manager, mentor, buddy, and personal tutor. I gain a variety of tips from them on how to apply myself effectively in my work and studies. They are all super friendly!

I have a personal tutor from Babington Business College, who always takes the time to encourage me to complete my CIPD Level 5 certificate in HRM and End Point Assessment e.g. providing me with a variety of resources (assessment preparation documents and references).

My training provider helps me to understand what it means to be an effective HR professional in terms of applying HR skills, knowledge, and behaviours in the workplace.

At AstraZeneca, there are several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These groups regularly send me calendar invites to attend any career events, social activities, etc. When I get a chance, I will attend these and they are a great way for me to learn something new and connect with employees outside of Talent Acquisition.

Yes

The employees are inclusive and diverse. They also believe in AstraZeneca's values and strategic priorities. If you want to work with a company where you will have many opportunities to network and develop personally and professionally, then it is well worth exploring the job opportunities available at AstraZeneca.

Be yourself, do not be afraid to explain your interests, values and strongest skills and how they are applicable to the respective job and AstraZeneca.