Human Resources Degree Apprentice Review

Currently I work in the Professional Hiring team which involves supporting various entities of the business to recruit for project and permanent roles. I work four days a week and one day at University.

I have developed new skills in each rotation I have completed such as data analysis, communicating with senior leaders, multitasking and dealing with ambiguity, existing skills from my previous role have been developed such as time management and organisation.

The financial package is very competitive and overall I have enjoyed rotating around various parts of HR, meeting new people and learning new processes. The programme could be improved in its organisation and communication, this has decreased the level of enjoyment in my experience.

The structure and organisation of the programme needs some immediate attention. The programme lead for P&C has just been changed which will hopefully improve this.

The support system at bp and within the apprenticeship overall is of a high standard. I feel I can go to managers and colleagues about my role or personal problems and all are handled in a respectful and kind manner. bp has a great inclusive culture and it is a pleasure to be within this.

The University have unfortunately been below standard across my time on the programme, I have felt like I have had more support and guidance from fellow apprentices who are in higher years and have experienced the same modules/assessments. This has supported me in understanding more and work towards a high final grade. The training provider has recently changed which should improve the experience with future apprentices onboarding.

I have not used anything I have learnt at University within the workplace.

There are a variety of extra-curricular activities such as monthly drinks, activity socials, business resource groups and the early careers committee. This has been one of the most enjoyable parts of the programme - getting to network with other apprentices in social settings

Yes

bp is a great place to work, with great financial benefits and a welcoming and inclusive culture. The apprenticeship programme, although requires some improvement, overall is a great choice for anyone considering a career progressing degree apprenticeship. I hope my experiences, contacts and developed skills will allow me to continue to grow in the corporate space.

Do your research on bps current activity and targets, the more informed you are on our ambitions and what bp are doing in the area you are applying for, the more passionate you will come across. Be yourself and not what you think a big company like bp wants to see! I was anxious that I needed to fit a mould but being yourself goes further.