Technical Academy Apprentice Review

by St. James's Place

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am currently a part of the Technical Academy where as part of this I rotate around different business areas at SJP every six months, to not only help support these teams with day to day activities and tasks, but also to help develop my insight on what these areas of the business achieve.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Yes, I have been able to develop my technical knowledge within the financial services industry, as well as gain credible, well-recognised qualifications along the way. Alongside this, I have been able to develop my communication and presenting skills as I have been able to converse with a plethora of different senior members of staff within the business.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

A large extent, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else!

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very well organised, are days vary a lot day-to-day however there is consistency with weekly check-ins and monthly catch-ups with management and the rest of our cohort.

9/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Weekly and Monthly 121 catch-ups with different senior management staff.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

We have quarterly catch-ups to discuss progress in a formal setting, however there is also several email catch ups throughout as well.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Incredibly well as it is providing me with real-life experience which will only benefit me more in doing my day-to-day activities.

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes, I have joined the SJP 6-a-side football team which compete every Tuesday at a local sporting facility, which has been incredibly enjoyable to help socialise and settle into the business in a more casual setting where I can still gain valuable connections to help me in the future.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend St. James's Place to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Like I've previously mentioned, I would not want to work anywhere else. I'm always saying how enjoyable my experience at SJP has been so far, and have even recommended my apprenticeship programme to a friend who has since applied, and will be joining the business in September!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to St. James's Place?

Take each stage as it comes. Don't let nerves overcome you on the day and try to remain calm and collected throughout the interview process, and of course, research the role in which you are applying for so you can not only understand the questions that the interviewers will ask you, but also so that you can ask informed questions to the interviewers as well.