Project Management Higher Apprentice Review

I am a Project Management Higher Apprentice. My role involves 4 days of placement work undertaking activities which further my practical understanding of key project concepts, such as risk and change management. I also spend 1 day a week in university lectures, where I learn the theoretical side of PM.

I have learnt a variety of skills, some of which relate solely to the workplace, and others which can give benefit in other aspects of life. Project- focused skills included improving my understanding of business programmes such as the Microsoft office suite, where as more general skills include improvements in my communication, presentation and time management to name a few.

Whilst challenging at times, I understand that this programme is going to benefit me so much in the future. There is a great social aspect to the job, and I feel extremely comfortable and happy to be working with the people I do. We are also encouraged to take on a variety of interesting stretch activities in addition to our daily work, which adds to the variety

I feel extremely values; they invest a lot into our development and really want all apprentices to succeed, paying close attention to our individual development and where we want our careers to go

The scheme itself is only in its 3rd year for my particular business area, but is more developed in others. There are still a few kinks to work out, due to the scheme being in its infancy however it is becoming more organised. There have been some issues with the University delivery, however these are slowly getting resolved as well

Structured university sessions, with a collection of presentations to support the lecturer. We now have a dedicated lecturer which we did not have before. We also have contacts at the university who help us if we have queries, however this can take time as they are based in Blackpool, whilst the scheme is delivered in Portsmouth.

Placement Managers are made aware that apprentices are here to learn and develop, and are not just a free resource to the them. As such, the support received on placements is plentiful

Well paid considering the level of experience we have, with generous wage progression throughout the scheme. In addition, the company offers generous benefits, such as pension and share schemes

Yes, as previously mentioned, we are encouraged to take on stretch assigmnets, and we are also invited to many interesting events, such as conferences. We are also encouraged to become STEM Ambassadors, which involves teaching the younger generations about STEM subjects

Yes

In my opinion, if management is what you want to get into, this is the best option compared to other alternatives such as University.

Read up on the company before you apply, and practice interview questions/activities- you only get 1 chance to make a good 1st impression!