Internal Audit Apprentice Review

I spend most of my time each week in audit meetings, and shadowing auditors to help build up my work based knowledge. The time remaining is split between private study, audit work and course work. This can look like making spreadsheets, reviewing reports, writing up study logs, or even taking online courses I am interested in (microsoft training etc).

I have learnt so many new skills as well as developing lots of existing skills. This includes communication, time management, feeling more able to seek out opportunities, chances to practice public speaking. As well as feeling more comfortable about my work presence- as I am more confident, assertive, and well spoken. Through networking and watching others, you can develop a lot of soft skills.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme because it has exceeded my expectations in many aspects. I enjoy going into the office, and also having the flexibility to work from home when I want to. I enjoy having responsibility and having others trust in my work ethic. I also like the balance of work (80%) and study (20% of my time).

I am not a part of the first cohort that have partaken in this programme. I feel that a lot of the issues that may have persisted in previous years have already been resolved/accounted for. I think that I have no complaints when it comes to the structure of the programme, as I had an 'easy' start becuase they have slowly built up the work load while I was becoming familiar with the bank.

I have received a lot of support from my employer over the past few months, especially during my introduction to the bank. There are many people in the bank across different teams who are there to support us, such as a pastoral team, line manager, and a shared apprentice line manager as well. Others in the bank are also more than happy to help and support us. We were also given buddies who were older apprentices.

Our training provider has a few point of contacts. We have our own talent coach, who we have check in calls with and can email/ message when ever we want- they are here to help ensure you are on track and that you are receiving all the personal support you need. This has been really helpful.

I think it has been so beneficial because it is important to have the knowledge ie the textbook side of things, to help develop the practical side of work. The qualifications are also great because they consolidate what you have learnt on the job and allow you to show others what you know, as well as being a great indicator for yourself.

There have been many social events and also network groups (cultural awareness, LGBTQIA inclusion, womens groups etc). These groups run events for everyone to attend and focus on important dates, such as Black History Month, Chinese New Year, International Women's Days. This is great because you can get involved in planning and/ or setting up these events- or simply just enjoying and attending them.

Yes

It is a very friendly and supportive place to work. Especially when joining the corporate world so young, this can be very important as impostor syndrome can be very off putting. Lloyds Banking Group is very welcoming and more importantly will encourage your development while helping you achieve your goals.

Focus on our values, and how you display them across different aspects in your life. Find you passion and tell us why it is important to you. Focus on what makes you stand out and how you will be a great asset to a bank such as Lloyds Banking Group.