Apprentice PMO Review

I am an Apprentice for RBS in the Payments Department working in the Change team as a PMO which involves programmes and projects. One of my duties involves working on these projects/programmes looking at the risks and issues. Other duties include updating various PowerPoints for meetings and other admin. tasks.

Since January when I started I have developed and learnt a number of skills. For example one skill which I have developed is my communication skills. For example each day I interact with various colleagues either managers, other people in my team, other apprentices whether it be through meetings or face to face discussions. I have also developed my organisational skills such as working with deadlines. Each day can be different in my role and every colleague is there is to support you and ensure you are getting the right learning.

I very much enjoy my programme. It was tough at learning new words and acronyms related to my role however through continous learning and asking questions I have started to pick things up and gained a better understanding. I enjoy completing new tasks when I am asked to. I also enjoy interacting and meeting new people such as other apprentices or managers.

Overall I feel very valued by RBS. It is tough on occassions as Im sure other apprentices have found is that my team is busy as they have their own day to day job to do however they always try to interact with me and involve me. I also have regular meetings with my line manager to discuss how I am getting on and whether I am getting tbe right support. This makes me feel like a valued member of both my team and RBS.

My apprenticeship programme is well structured and planned out by both RBS and my training provider BPP. I was given clear details when I first started during my induction days on different areas such as length of the programme, what Level apprenticeship I am undertaking, qualification I am studying towards and many other areas. Again I am unsure of anything I can always contact my line manager or BPP to ask a question.

As I only started in January my apprenticeship training does not start until next month (March). However I have exchanged a few emails and spoken to my training provider BPP on a few occassions since I have started. They have stated that they are always there if you need help or need a question answered. They seem very supportive and I look forward to working with them.

I have regular meetings with my line manager either on a weekly or fortnightly basis. These meetings involve seeing if I am getting on okay, getting the right support, we discuss my BPP Apprenticeship work and any other business which might be relevant at the time.

The salary/package that I am on I believe is what I want and more. Seeing as it is an apprenticeship I believe the salary is a very good one. I obviously have to pay out expenses such as train fares etc so it does help.

Being an apprentice there are a number of events and opportunities. It is very good to network with other apprentices within RBS. There are a number of social events to attend such as apprentice meals/drinks. Your own team may also hold an event such as drinks or a meal. As I started in January we are trying to organise a meal for all the apprentices who were in the Winter Intake. There are also other opportunities such as sports events, quizes, fundraising etc.

Yes

The RBS Apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic opportunity for young people. The support and learning you get is second to none from other colleagues who have been here for a number of years. Everyone is always happy to help if you are stuck on anything and need a question answered.

It is a fantastic opportunity so take as much on as you can such as training courses, events etc. My second piece of advice is ask loads of questions. Never be afraid to ask questions as everyone is happy to help you.