School Leavers Programme Review

My responsibilities day to day are similar to that of my colleagues that are training me; I will move around different departments within the year that I'm working in each business area, so once I have grasped what each team does I can help with all their responsibilities. Externally, in some roles I have a lot of contact with clients and customers, and internally most roles involve liasing with other departments, some of which I have already worked in so I have a good understanding of their role.

We have had a lot of internal and external training on our programme, from basic Microsoft excel and powerpoint training, to reading financial statements and how to present yourself in the workplace. I will also have the opportunity to undertake a degree course with the ifs school of finance in Banking Practise & Management.

The company culture is something that echos throughout the business; the people are friendly and helpful and there has been no animosity towards us whatsoever. The work has been challenging enough and if it ever becomes too much there are people within your business area, and within the learning development team, who are on hand to discuss it.

Close Brothers allow you the opportunity to prove yourself. If you show your capabilities and willingness to do more, this will be recognised within the company. Managers are aways briefed on the programme and always offer help and support should we need it. Feedback to our learning & development manager is frequent and honest. We are valued in the business and people recognise our willingness to learn.

The programme began with a well organised and informative 2 week induction programme, detailing the company structure. Since then and throughout the programme there have been regular training days with support from our mentors. There is a mentor/buddy system and many people around to support. The overall working schedule is handled by each individual business and I personally found it well managed and my colleagues were all aware of my progress and when to expect me in their teams,

We have a strong support network around the programme with many senior managers also taking a keen interest in our development and any improvements we feel the programme needs. Vast majority of people willing to help if we need it.

We change managers often although keep a constant in the form of our mentor, both always eager to help and assist and also ask for feedback with the rotations and the work we are being asked to do.

Living costs supported, travel to training days and other training activites supported. Expenses for business related trips covered. Help & support with relocation where relevant.

Volunteering opportunities within the local community, sports and social clubs offering social activites with colleagues, company events/activites every so often.

Yes

It has been a fantastic experience so far and would recommmend to anyone not sure about university - I always enjoy coming into work and really get on with the people I work with.

Be yourself throughout the application process, they are looking for people who match our culture and who they feel would fit in easily.