Apprentice Management Consultant Review

Being a consultant involves a lot of project management skills. It is taking a 'problem statement' from a client and collaborating with a team to create a solution, whether that's change management or a delivery strategy for a client's service/product.

I have learnt various key consulting skills from both my apprenticeship provider and from daily work experience such as, RACI matrix, Process Mapping etc. I have also developed my PowerPoint and Excel skills, which is key for project work.

I am really enjoying my apprenticeship programme at Arcadis and I am eager to continue progressing and building up my project experience.

There is a clear structure for my apprenticeship programme, with the total duration being 5 years. Doing a level 4 in the first year, then progressing to a level 6 (degree) for 3 years and later with the option to pursue chartership.

I have a great deal of support from my employer through formal methods such as apprenticeship sponsor, line manager and early careers. Additionally, within the business the team is very welcoming and supportive from previous apprentices to graduates and even senior/principal consultants.

I have a designated tutor from my training provider, with whom I have monthly formal meetings with to check in on progress and anything I may need support with.

The level 4 (improvement practitioner) is a great qualification to be doing at this stage as it teaches all the basics and foundations of conducting any project.

There is a monthly training from apprentices and junior consultants, which acts as a platform for career progression as well to socialise with your fellow colleagues. In addition, there often social events every month celebrating a range of things such as, Christmas, Chinese New year, Ramadan etc. There is also a netball team.

Yes

It is a great place to start a career due to the supportive environment as well as a business to work at later on in your career.

Do your research into the company, don't be nervous during the interview stage and be yourself.