Research Assistant Review

I am a Research Assistant in the Bank of England. The area I work within is Technology, more specifically Testing. It is my job to test the software the Bank uses so as to find any issues or defects that could cause issues and problems in the Live environment. Day to day, I liaise with the business and developers to create, test and deploy the products the Bank needs for its day to day functions. From an early stage I had a large amount of responsibility.

I have learnt many new skills. I started the role with next to no IT skills and I am now competent in MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook and Share Point. I use all of the mentioned products on a daily basis. My knowledge and expertise within technology has increased hugely. I am also much more confident and experienced in working collaboratively with others, in teams and being able to speak to superiors and in meetings. I have completed my ISTQB Foundation in Testing certification and I am currently enrolled on the QA Associate Project Manager Diploma.

Being new to this environment I am learning something everyday. I greatly enjoy this stimulus and learning environment. The culture at the Bank of England is a great one, with all levels of the hierarchy being accessible to for help and encouragement. The programme is meeting some of my expectations. In the beginning, things were not as clearer as I would have like them to have been, especially in regards to qualifications, degrees and roles available.

Within my area I could not ask for a more supportive manager. They push and encourage me to be better as well as being supportive of the things I would like to achieve. They do their utmost to support me and help me develop. I believe that if you work hard you will be recognised and the Bank has a good system for reviewing performance and gaining recognition. As well as trying to succeed in my day job I actively participate in HR related activities which are also a great way of supporting the Banks work and gaining recognition.

The structure of the programme is one of the few areas where I have seen some inconsistency. Given the young age of the average apprentice, I feel we could have received a lot more training in regards to work aspects: general IT training, training within our role and learning about the Bank of England, its areas and where you play a part. Part of the programme is completing a diploma. This is obviously a good qualification to have but it is spread over two years. I believe it could be completed in 10-12 months. I feel that the apprentices should have more regular meetings with HR to voice their concerns and ask any questions.

We are required to do a Diploma as part of our apprenticeship. This is run through a company called QA. The support and actual diploma course has been inconsistent so far. The mentors are vague and unclear and we often find we are unsure of the work that is necessary of us. The actual course content is decent, I feel I have been able to transfer the knowledge learnt to my day job. The course is 18-22 months long which I believe could be condensed into 10-12 months. This diploma is independent of the Bank and the Bank has been very supportive in addressing these issues.

My manager is excellent. They are incredibly supportive of my work, career and growth. They actively try and help me and our catch ups are regular and productive. In regards to the HR team, I would have liked to have seen more contact with them within the first few months of the apprenticeship. Especially in regards, to more clarity on the programme, our progression, what happens at the end of the programme, etc.

The salary compared to some of the other Apprenticeships offered by other companies is competitive. With regards to if you wanted to live in London it is not sufficient and I believe should be increased by at least 20%. However the Bank of England's benefits are excellent and the Defined Benefit pensions is excellent. The canteen offers great food for a great price.

The Bank of England has many opportunities outside of work and has a wide range of clubs and societies open to employees. They are very supportive of any charitable events you wish to participate in and match your contribution. They own their own sports club which often has events that you can attend as well as having a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, etc. The Bank is also very supportive and inclusive of ethnic and religious holidays and often host events that all employees can attend. A highlight of the Bank is its many seminars and lectures that you can attend.

Yes

It is a fantastic place to work and learn. The environment is very inclusive and supportive. If you are new to the work place and cooperate environment then it is a great starting place to build a career.

I would recommend you do your research into what the Bank of England actually does as it is quite specific. I would also recommend being genuinely interest in the role you are applying for and express that interest. I would advise you express your interest in working at the Bank and your desire to learn.