Finance Apprentice Review

I am a finance apprentice so I will rotate around the different departments within finance in order to learn what they do and how they all fit into the business. I am given work by colleagues in my current department, and they will show me new aspects of the department throughout my rotation.

I've learnt how to be more responsible during my time here and I've learnt that you shouldn't be afraid to ask questions as they will help you in the long term. I would also say that I've become more confident since working here as sometimes I've had to put myself out there to make sure I know what is required of me.

I really enjoy my apprenticeship! Even though some days I won't be as busy as others, the work I am given is always interesting and most of the time can be challenging. I do also enjoy studying AAT in college. I do this on a weekly basis on the structure of the lessons is also very good.

I'd say it is well organised as the managers make sure that your rotations will benefit you and show you things you haven't yet come across. I think the work/college balance is good and as you move further through your apprenticeship your rotation should include work that relates more to what you are learning in college.

There is a lot of support offered at Tata and this can be accessed in many different ways. Obviously if I have any general issues with my apprenticeship I can speak to my manager but If I have issues within my rotation I can also speak to the manager in my current department. I can also speak to my colleagues for advice but as part of my apprenticeship I am provided with a mentor also.

If I have any issues with work in college I can always speak to my tutor who will make sure to explain certain areas If I don't understand or she will provide me with extra work so I can practice in the house. As I study through Pathways I also receive frequent reviews where I can bring up any issues whether those be work or college related.

I think my current qualification (AAT) helps me perform better in my role as it allows me to understand the fundamentals of the jobs that my colleagues have. This is good because when I am being shown new work, if it is something I have covered in college I am in a better position to understand what I am being shown.

There are quite a few extra-curricular activities such as choirs, yoga classes, well-being sessions etc. I believe there are sports teams you can join and I know in Port Talbot they sometimes hold team sports events. There is also a young professionals group called Magnet which hold events that the apprentices are eligible to join.

Yes

I would recommend Tata because they offer a very good apprenticeship programme and especially within Finance you are given the opportunity to see and learn so much that it gives you a good grounding for your future career. The qualification aspect is also very good as all your fees are paid for you allowing you to not worry about being able to afford to study.

I would suggest possibly trying to get some work experience if you can so you can see if an office type of environment suits you before applying. I would also say that even if you are normally on the quieter side, if you get to the interview stage of your application to make sure that you show on interest and interact with people as the interviewers will be looking at your actions throughout the day not just I your interview.