Apprentice project manager Review

On a day-to-day basis, my job role consists of numerous different things including managing stakeholders as this is a large portion of project management. Managing stakeholders includes tasks such as email communications to give updates on the project along with getting any approval required to make the project move forward. This sometimes requires setting up any required meetings. I have taken on various different tasks since starting my apprenticeship such as helping to write governance papers and discovering the best types of processes by liaising with project teams.

I have developed various skills during my apprenticeship such as confidence, hosting my own meetings and speaking with different stakeholders. Another skill I have developed is time management, managing my apprenticeship work along with day-to-day tasks proved challenging at the start. However, discovering what worked best for me with study times has really ensured the development of this skill.

Since starting the apprenticeship programme, I found it quite challenging, however my manager and my team have been extra supportive and having someone on my team who had already completed my apprenticeship really put my mind at ease. Now I have completed my first module, I feel confidence and really enjoy my programme.

On the Natwest side, I have found the apprenticeship scheme very well structured and I have received all the support required. However, I feel the training provider I am completing my apprenticeship with has been a little bit rocky. Since starting the programme, I do not feel enough support was given and the whole process could have been made much more simple.

The support from my employer has been exceptional. The early careers teams are in place to assist me with any query I have. Along with my line manager and the rest of my team who have provided me with any support I have needed. my study time has been taken very seriously and I have been allowed to block my diary and deny any meeting invitations that come in during this time.

During the first few weeks of my apprenticeship, I feel much more support should have been provided. I now know my point of contacts so things run much more smoothly, although I feel this should have been made aware much earlier in the process as most things were left for me to figure out by myself.

My qualification has helped me perform better in my role as I have had to find out about the company structure. This has ensured I understand what I am doing and why I am doing it. My qualification has also pushed me out of my comfort zone to engage in tasks I have never done before.

There are various activities you can get involved in for example; I have applied to join the apprentice council to help future apprentices that start at NatWest, along with becoming an apprentice ambassador to help spread the word of NatWest apprenticeships. NatWest encourages you to get involved with as many things as possible, but also not to take too much on.

Yes

NatWest has been very supportive whatever the situation, whether part of my apprenticeship or my day-to-day role. I truly feel NatWest look after their employees and have their best interest at heart. They help you develop in your role and overall develop in your career. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at NatWest up to now.

Be yourself, and try not to be scared. Everyone was in your shoes at one point in their career and everyone understands that. You are bound to be quite nervous but NatWest is a very understanding company to work for and they will put you at ease as much as possible.