Human Resources Management Apprentice Review

Human Resources Management Apprenticeship - I move around to different teams every 4 months or so, so my daily tasks are different depending on the placement. Some general tasks include processing season ticket loans and reimbursements as well as secondments with pay changes. It may also include working with recruitment to shortlist candidates for particular roles, with opportunities to sit in on an interview process and take part in the recruitment decisions for that role. My next placement is with the people management advisor team, of whom deal with grievances, absence & sickness etc. As well as completing my apprenticeship with a year in Business Partnering, which will include working with different business area's and HR.

As part of the apprenticeship I am studying towards a Level 5 CIPD qualification in Human Resources Management. This covers a broad range of HR which we will also be experiencing hands on as well as in a lesson. I have attended several internal courses with TfL which have helped me to understand how to portray myself in general, in meetings and interviews. As well as working on my presentation skills for future meetings and events. I would say that from only 6-7 months on this apprenticeship scheme I have learnt a lot more skills than I would have done at university, all of which I can implement in my day to day life and future career. My confidence has grown a huge amount which has allowed me to take part in projects, big meetings and events. Communication is a skill that is always utilised here at TfL and it is fair to say that it will be exercised and you will improve this without even realising.

I am really enjoying my apprenticeship scheme as it allows me to gain insight into different area's within HR for a set amount of time. I feel like a valued member of staff rather than just 'an apprentice'. People associate apprentices with young people who are given the jobs others don't want to do - this isn't the case, you are always encouraged to get involved in new/upcoming projects which have huge implications on the business, and to get involved in this is a great experience and insight into some of the things we do day to day. My day's go so quickly as I always have fun and creative things to do in each team, there is always opportunities for you to get involved in other things if you wish to as well.

I feel very lucky to have been given this opportunity but also feel very appreciated and valued as a member of staff. Everyone here is so friendly and welcoming, however never make you feel like just 'an apprentice' - you are praised for your work and your work will be recognised. Everyone at TfL are willing to help with anything including work related issues, home issues, studying and just for a chat. We each have a buddy who will usually be a second year apprentice from the same scheme. You will also have a mentor who will be there if you need any advice on next placements or CIPD work which is great. You have an apprentice scheme sponsor who will help you with any concerns you are having about the scheme and CIPD work, as well as your placement managers who will support and guide you through your placements.

The apprenticeship scheme is structured into 4 main placements, including HR Services (4 months), Recruitment (4 months), People Management Advisors (4 months) and Business Partnering (12 months). The first week of the journey at TfL will be an induction into an insight of what happens at TfL - paperwork and contracts will be completed, you will be introduced to the HR Director Tricia Wright, talks from the Commissioner Mike Brown and some fun activities put on by second year apprentices. The CIPD qualification requires us to attend Kingston College every fortnight for a day of lessons and followed by a study day the week after to complete assignments. Assignments are structured to specific deadlines however the lecturers on the course will support you best they can.

Our tutors at Kingston College are very helpful when it comes to any assignment queries and when teaching the general course - they are always available for 1 2 1's and catch ups as well as dropping them an email.

All of our support systems at TfL are very approachable and welcoming - it is quite overwhelming sometimes to know that you have so much support and can be difficult to decide who to talk to as everyone is always willing to help.

The benefits at TfL are very generous and are a big help financially. The salary for our apprenticeship scheme is great compared to many other companies - considering many apprenticeships are associated with minimum wage.

There are always opportunities for you to get involved in such as recruitment fairs for all types of people. For example, I took part in an ex-military and armed forces recruitment fair which gave me a real insight into the things TfL do for the public. Many teams within TfL are constantly organising socials for team building and to network outside of working hours - this is great if you are adventurous. There are several clubs you can become a part of, each with different objectives. Such as religious groups and women in work etc.

Yes

Transport for London is a great place to work, it is such a diverse and developing company which values all of its workers. Working within a big company is a great opportunity to meet new people and network with senior managers and directors. It is a great place for progression and to build your career. You can work together within teams to add ideas and make decisions to help to 'Keep London Moving'.

In the application process I would highly recommend selling yourself, if you've done something good ensure you mention it. Don't be scared of the interview process, you have got so far and should be proud of yourself - be yourself, sell yourself and smile! On assessment days take the opportunity to meet other people and network. If opportunities present themselves to you I would recommend that you jump onboard and take part, however if you know there is something you want to get involved in, don't hesitate asking!