Administration Apprentice Review

I was involved with the general administration along with visiting every department in the whole works. Booking pool cars, arranging travel for managers, assisting on audits, spreadsheet work. I experienced reception work and worked with the accountants to prepare reports. I attending meetings where I took minutes and prompted feedback. I interacted with colleagues, visitors, & customers along with leadership team members.

My typing skills were non-existent and at the time computers were not used by most families. I was supported through various software and typing courses on and off site. As part of my apprenticeship I undertook an ONC qualification in Business Management, I then progressed to the HNC, then onto the degree. My communication, public speaking and organisational skills have grown immensely. My team working skills were relatively good before hand but having the opportunity to extend my teamwork skills to different stakeholders was welcome.

I really enjoyed the program. I had a good mix of experiences on and off site. Practical and theory based. I had good colleagues and mentors that made my experience positive. The variety of tasks and projects I undertook made my apprenticeship something I now talk about day to day when I visit schools.

My program was for two years. It started with a weeks induction then a teambuilding week off site. I then spent the first 3 months in the administration department. Following a change of supervisor I then spent the next 16 months visiting 16 different areas for at least a month at a time or even longer.

There was endless support from my employer and from my training advisor. I was supported with challenges and appraisals and also with mentoring from the HR department. I was also given some free time to research any of my assignments for my studies. I attended two evenings per week and was given two afternoons a week in lieu.

I received all the support I needed from my training provider Neath Port Talbot College. Towards the end of the course when deadlines were tight, extra sessions were available if needed and the lecturers would work closely to see if everyone was on target. The support was effective and I gained a good qualification.

From my first qualification I had a good grounding and understanding and still use some of the skills today. It helps not just with the classroom but in practical situations in life also. The course set me up to want to explore further into the business world and I have been able to achieve this through my first qualification.

I have joined in many social events over the years. Currently there is a walking club and various opportunities to improve our health & wellbeing. Internally there are many groups who meet regularly on different subjects, one in particular is the womens charter which was set up last year to celebrate the positive impact of having more women in the workplace.

Yes

My career is now in its 20th year at Tata Steel. I have had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the UK and engaged with many different stakeholders. I have continued my development both academically and personally through attending college for further and higher education. If there is a skills gap this is identified in appraisals and acted upon.

When joining Tata Steel you are joining very a passionate and considerate workforce. Everyone is striving to reach the same goal and you work as a family team to achieve this. There are many opportunities to explore and your vision is always looked upon for new initiatives. Learning about the core values will help you get a foot on the ladder.