Corporate Banking Apprenticeship Review

I am currently on my first rotation working In FIG Client Services which deals with the onboarding of investment clients. I work alongside the Front Office dealing with the client to collect information for KYC checks and then pass this onto the financial crime team for review. We also have to deal with the credit team to establish a credit score and then the legal team for an agreement with the client. Every Monday is dedicated to working towards my apprenticeship qualification with study and online lectures.

I have developed good computer skills managing EXCEL spreadsheets and powerpoint presentations where I have spoken to external stakeholders. I have learnt a wide range of communication skills with clients and bank employees to ensure for a smooth client relationship at onboarding. I have had to improve time management when managing a number of clients who are varied stages of the onboarding process.

I have immensely enjoyed the programme as I am in a good team, learning about KYC requirements and financial crime. They have been very supportive in my development and appreciative of my contribution. The course with BPP was well structured with the content interesting. If I was to offer a criticism the modules are slightly too focused on retail banking.

The structure is well organised with Santander allowing me every Monday off to work towards my degree qualification. There are 3 modules each with a 3 1/2 hour exam and 2,500 word assignment. Thee are also multiple work tasks that work towards the theoretical qualification where we have to submit evidence from our day-to-day working onto One File.

I receive a lot of support from Santander as we were provided with a mentor to assist us in the opening weeks and have regular informal meetings with them. Our apprenticeship manager Romana oversaw our induction and first 6 months, before we have each been assigned a line manager for our apprenticeship who overseas any issues we have. Furthermore we also have the support of our work line manager who is aware of the programme we follow and offer guidance where required towards ratings and contribution.

I receive weekly lectures from the BPP learning tutor which are online and interactive where we are able to ask questions. There is also a skills development coach who tracks our progress and meets regularly with us to give support for assignments and work project tasks. There is a full support team for external personal issues.

The first module on regulation and ethics massively aided in my role of onboarding and KYC approval. The two essays we have submitted have been focused on the financial crisis and the reforms that have come of that. Many of the regulations for onboarding that are in place were as of a consequence of the financial crisis e.g Dodd Frank.

I play regularly in the Santander 5 a side football team and we have played against other Santander teams in the office and other companies. I go to the gym with people in my team down the road and there are regular social events down the pub after work. I have also been to the Savoy for a client networking event.

Yes

Its a professional company that has a very good structure for apprenticeships and is keen to promote the youth. It is a welcoming community and there are lots of social events aside from work. There are lots of rotation options which give a variety of career options to move into on completion of the qualification

Research the company before interviews with knowledge of the course and Santanders values and behaviours which are a core part of its work ethic. Understand current banking situations such as the impact of Brexit and the causes of the financial crisis. Be confident at interview and ask questions about the bank. Try to show more about your personality and outside interests.