Communications Lead Review

I look after internal and external communications for my department.

I am 33 and decided to develop my skill set and help further my career and it is by far the best decision I have even made. I have learnt so much since being on my apprenticeship and I have gained so much confidence because of it.

I love my programme and working with people I wouldn't usually get a chance to. I have not only learnt a great deal from the programme but also from the other apprentices in the cohort. I did have to prioritise my time and ensure I kept up to date with my "off the job" hours but really they should be called "on the job " hours as that is when I did the vast majority of the work. What people don't realise is how much time you actually meet the required "off the job" hours while doing your actual role, the only difference is that you are doing it in a better new efficient way because you have been taught it.

My programme was great, well structure and organised. I knew what and when I needed to do things and I have a helpful coach to support if required.

My manager has been fantastic, she is a real advocate for apprenticeships and encouraged me to do one. Her support throughout the programme has been brilliant, she has stretched me and made the experience fun and rewarding. It makes a huge difference if your manager is supportive and it shows what a great leader looks like.

I received ample support and was always encouraged to ask questions and reach out if needed.

When I first took on the role, it was unfamiliar but I knew I had the potential to make it work. I did this for a year and although I made progress I knew something was missing and that I had not reached anywhere near my full potential. I decided to start the apprenticeship and right away I was able to put into practice what I was learning which grew my confidence. I feel like I was an amateur and now I am a professional.

Yes, there are loads of networks you can get involved in.

Yes

It is a great place to work, everyone is friendly and there is a real sense of comradery. There are so many different career paths and you have the LEAP team to support you with further development.

Apply, I did and I genuinely love working here. It is a big company with thousands of colleagues and opportunities. If you start working here I 100% recommend doing a LEAP Apprenticeship and start developing your skill set right away.