Work Experience Student Review

- shadowing different employees and learning about their roles - meeting and greeting customers - observing different daily duties - discussing careers in finance, and the different routes available - working with employees to run the customer front and sitting in on different financial meetings - learning about the different services banks offer and how the business is run as a local branch

- how to talk to customers - the different services a bank can offer - how banks make a profit from the services they offer - the importance a bank has within the local economy - the importance of advertising and transparency - basic accountancy and financial skills - the different job roles within the financial sector

i really enjoyed my work experience placement - i already have a interest in business and finance as i have picked these as my a levels, and plan to study them at further depth at university. shadowing different employees and talking to a variety of different people has really helped me narrow down the path i want to follow in the future.

it was somewhat organised - although there was no clear layout of what each day was to consist, there was always something for me to do and observe. each day was a surprise and really depending on what the bank had planned for the day - there was nothing specifically organised for me, but it was still enjoyable.

i learned a lot about what it would be like to work for a chain branch like barclays - the staff work together as a team, which has shown me the value of soft skills such as teamwork, and ensure they are working to the best standards. i also got an insight into the different services a bank can offer outside of loans.

it was very useful - it has helped me decide that i want to be an accountant and work behind the scenes of managing a bank, rather than working in customer services within a local branch. although i enjoyed my time on my placement, it has helped me decide that it is not something i wish to pursue further.

no, i was not paid or reimbursed for my work experience placement, although i was offered travel expenses. however, as i live close to the bank, this would not be required. lunch was not provided, although i was told this before i started my placement so it was not a surprise.

no, there was no opportunity for meeting with employees outside of those working in the bank - this was not an issue for me, as i wanted to experience the work environment first hand rather than network and create links, but if this is the aim for students wanting to complete this placement, then it may be best to look elsewhere.

Yes

it really helped me narrow down my career choices and helped me decide that i want to be accountant or financial adviser, rather than a bank worker as i enjoy the mathematical side of the job sector more than the customer aspect elements - although this may appeal to others wanting to work in such an environment

- apply early - create a finance specific CV - contact a range of banks in different areas - make sure any reimbursement or payment is discussed beforehand ; you never know! - apply to complete the placement during half term or holidays as you are more likely to get a response - enjoy yourself on the placement and take notes :)