Quality Degree Apprentice Review

My current day to day role includes providing support to the auditing department. I have collated information regarding assurance activities in order to find trends and possible improvements. I also go along to audit meetings taking notes for the auditor with the view to carry out an audit of my own. I have weekly tasks to pull together information and keep watch on current progress. throughout the apprenticeship I will be placed with different departments so the role will vary.

New skills I have learned include questioning techniques, report writing and I am also developing how to deliver information in a more clear and concise way. Furthermore, I am developing my skills in communication to people in all levels of the business in face to face meetings, via email and over the telephone.

So far I am really enjoying the programme I am on. I have been given my general work as part of the placement I am on currently which I find interesting and also, I have been provided with multiple opportunities for self-development for example, taking part in charity work, having mentors from people in other areas of the business and my colleagues are happy to answer any of my queries.

I am in my first placement within the company and will be moved every six months, I’m unsure of which departments I will be placed in over the course of the apprenticeship but I think this gives me the opportunity to have more input in my own development. The structure of the learning programme has been very clear so far.

I have been provided with plenty of support for my employer. It is encouraged that I ask questions whenever I’m unsure and they are always answered whether it is regarding work or my studies and I have been introduced to people who may be able to help with any struggles I may have specifically relating to their speciality. I have been provided with support not only from my department but others too who are also very willing to answer any questions I have.

I think I receive enough support from my training provider; I have a college day every week which is solely spent on the education part of the apprenticeship. My tutors are always accessible by email or phone and also have drop in study sessions once a week I can attend if necessary.

I think it is a bit early to provide a definitive answer on how my degree will help in my role (as I have only been in the role for a couple of months). So far, my work and education hasn’t really overlapped however, I know in the next couple of years of my degree the topics I learn will be more directed to quality in particular and as I go to more work placements my learning will be important.

There are many opportunities to volunteer for a choice of charities, have input and use these as a way to meet people, it’s also possible to join the apprentice council to get more involved in the scheme and network with other apprentices. I am aware of other support clubs.

Yes

This company is very dedicated to providing their apprentices with great education and a great workplace. The apprentices are encouraged to work on their own initiative in order to get the most out of the opportunities given to them. It is also a large company with chance for career progression which they can guide you on.

I would advise to choose a career path they really think they would like to progress down and one which they would be able to motivate themselves to work on as there is a lot of working on your own initiative. I would also advise them to learn as much as they can about the company before applying so they can get a feel of the company culture and values.