Research Assistant Review

As a research assistant, my daily role consists of collating data into specific spreadsheets to make it available for public analysis. I analyse the data sent in by banks/financial corporations and run plausibility checks to ensure legitimacy. I also interact with many staff members from across the organisation and am involved in work relating to social networks (e.g. Christian Union etc.) and organisational restructure.

I have definitely developed some of my existing skills for example: I had existing (mediocre) skills in IT and since working here and using different software and applications on a daily basis, I have developed more advanced IT skills. I have also improved my time management skills drastically, being in a work environment that is so reliant on punctual work submissions has really helped me to be more in control of my workload.

I do enjoy my programme and appreciate that I am undertaking a very rare opportunity and for that I ensure I make the most out of every day- which leads to me enjoying it more. Although leaving school and going into full-time work takes its toll on you and so that isn't particularly enjoyable. The work is diverse and there are plenty of opportunities to get yourself involved in more enjoyable roles.

I feel valued by the Bank as they have actively welcomed us and helped us settle into the culture. Although, it does sometimes feel like because I am a school leaver with limited skills/qualifications, that we are replaceable. This is something I am seeing the Bank acknowledge and are trying to improve on how they value their school leavers.

The programme has undergone a restructure and so is slightly unorganised. We were given a timetable at the beginning that hasn't tightly been adhered to although all targets so far have still been reached, so the Bank actively ensure we are on track. Organisation of the programme could be more consistent and concrete as it's a little bit trial and error at the moment (although its important to note the programme is relatively new and so of course is going to be improved along the way).

We are currently studying internally and the course delivery has been identified as needing improvement- this is being worked on. The training provided (for my specific apprenticeship- this does vary) is delivered through online courses and there isn't any interaction with the lecturer which leaves me to request help from my colleagues.

We are currently studying internally and the course delivery has been identified as needing improvement- this is being worked on. Although I do feel very supported and comfortable to go and ask for help, we have plenty of people around who are more than willing to support us!

For an apprentice, I can't complain. I do believe school leavers set their expectations too high for apprentice roles, it's important to remember we have no higher education as of yet and so naturally won't earn as much. Although all my costs are covered and I am able to make monthly savings too, in some cases I'm earning more than the average full-timer (for example, a full-time retail assistant) and I am only a school leaver.

No, there aren't really much things outside of work besides the gym and socials with your team. But that isn't a fault of the organisation, in my opinion. And this is also being developed, there are groups working on improving outside opportunities.

Yes

Because the Bank has a great culture and treats staff very well. This is rarely found in the private sector/other organisations. There is great flexibility at the Bank- working from home etc. And there is also a really good network of things to get involved in besides your day job- there's a gym and doctor's and the teams genuinely do care about the staff.

Be honest, be yourself. I never expected to get this role when I arrived at the assessment centre (and all through the application process to be honest) I didn't think I was the sort of person the Bank would hire due to my background and stereotypes of the sort of person that I assumed works at the Bank. Although, don't be too out there- of course we are a very professional organisation and you don't want to ruin your chances- make the right first impression!