Rating

8.6/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • I rotate around the logistics side of AO.com meaning I spend minimum a month in each department. This means I get to experience how the whole process from order to customer and get a real overview of how the entire system works. This means I work with every level of experienced employee in each area of the business. I get a business improvement project for each department, where I work with the department manager and other necessary people to complete it.

    9/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • By the end of the apprenticeship I will have achieved a level 4 business administration qualification. In work, we are encouraged to attend business skills sessions for things such as communicating effectively, assertiveness and emotional intelligence. These skills sometimes come in more handy than those gained from the qualification as they are more used on a day to day basis within work.

    8/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I really enjoy what I do and a lot of that comes down to the people I work with. Like I said, I do a lot of projects with a lot of different people meaning I meet a lot of new people, but so far, I have never worked with someone who was reluctant to help me. We are encouraged to think outside the norm and that is supported by everyone in the company.

    9/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by AO?
  • I feel well valued by AO. A lot of that comes down to the amount of interest employees of all levels are interested in what I do. No one wants you to fail and they show this by their interest in what you're doing and their willingness to support you.

    9/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • My programme is very well structured because I am almost constantly moving departments meaning I need a strong structure so that managers can expect me etc. We are inducted on day one, including an induction for the warehouse. The college tutor comes once a month to check on how we're doing with college work and to set work, but is available to email anytime. We are also encouraged to do all coursework at work and ensure that time is put aside to do so and managers are made aware of this to ensure it happens.

    9/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • Our tutor comes once month and is very understanding if things get in the way and dates need changing etc. She is also available via email which is useful when you need help quicker.

    9/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • I have a meeting after every department with the learning and development co-ordinator, this is helpful because I can give feedback on what I felt went well about my time in the department and what I feel could change, it also gives them an opportunity to give me feedback regarding where I could improve my skills and what I am good at it. If I needed any help, I know that any manager would be able to do so.

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • My salary is adequate for my life now, but it isn't something I could live off forever. It is higher than the minimum wage for an apprentice, however, it is only suitable because I still live with my parents and don't have much in the way of living costs.

    7/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • As an apprentice we have to take part in Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. The company are good at finding us opportunities to volunteer in the local community. We have two big company events throughout the year and several smaller ones that are organised by the engagement team. We also get a fair few company benefits for businesses in the local area.

    8/10

  • 9. Would you recommend AO to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • I think apprenticeships are a really good opportunity for young people who aren't really sure what they want to do, especially if you're in a good company that encourages you to develop and learn.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AO?
  • Don't try to be what you think the company wants so just be yourself


Details

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Customer Service

North West

April 2018


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