Project Management Apprentice Review

My role as an apprentice project manager is to contribute towards developing project plans for stakeholders. I’m responsible for getting updates from stakeholders both progress and Issues/risks as well and holding them accountable for completing actions. The status is regularly reported to steerco.

Some new skills I’ve learnt include fundamental PM skills like making project timelines, identifying risks, managing stakeholders. I’ve developed my interpersonal skills and ability to organised and prioritise.

The main areas of programme I enjoy are having opportunities to show skills, working with others and being challenged. Working to deadlines pushes me to work effectively, however occasionally the expectation to get things perfect can be pressurising- regardless I still love the challenge.

Some features that are well organised are the support system and the set up of placements. Six months is a good amount of time to get to grips with a project and develop your skill.

Everyone on the transformation is super helpful and always takes time out to support me. My managers understand my target areas and work to help me achieve these.

During workshops, my training provider is approachable and makes time to answer our questions. He’s happy to address any issues we’re having during our 121’s. He takes our feedback on board for our next workshops.

I can apply the theory to my day to day job. Being able to see the alignment between the two gives me reassurance that I’m using the correct methods.

Currently, I’m working on the team newsletter. As well as this, there is always opportunity to get involved in charity activities, eg raising money for comic relief with my cohort.

Yes

The experience. It is a great alternative to uni as you gain knowledge with your theory work while gaining real experience. It gives you an opportunity to network professionally and grow in confidence as you are dealing with stakeholders - university can’t offer this experience.

Ask questions! Everyone in the company wants you to progress and they are happy to help you. You’ll only learn from being open and asking as many questions as possible.