Finance Apprentice Review

My role as a Finance Apprentice involves: -Analysing spreadsheets to look at product performance -Creating monthly packs to show certain aspects of the businesses performance -Keeping on top of financials and updating project trackers -Assisting in audit reports to FCA/ABI -Attending meetings and sharing my thoughts on any relevant ideas I have

I have learned many new skills since I started my role as a Finance Apprentice. I have became much more competent using IT programmes such as Excel and Word and have thoroughly enjoyed getting to grips with the tools within these applications. I have also developed personal skills as well such as how to deliver a presentation confidently by using effective body language/tone etc.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme as I feel like I learn something new everyday, whether it be something technical or product knowledge. I also enjoy the qualification side of the programme as each workbook is really different and allows me to develop my knowledge for many different topics that will help me in the workplace.

My programme is very well structured. I think this because I feel like I always know what is going on and what events I have to prepare for. The work side of the programme is very organised as I have objectives which are set for me to reach and new tasks get introduced to me as I become more competent in the role. The qualification side is also well organised as the skills coach is very responsive and is extremely clear as to what we need to complete.

I receive invaluable support from my employer, from my manager, my team members and also the Apprentice Manager. My manager always keeps in touch with me and makes sure I am ok and have enough work to be getting on with. My fellow team members also support me by always involving me in conversations and assisting me if I need help. The Apprentice Manager is also very good at supporting me. They are in regular contact with me to check up and I really appreciate the support they show.

I receive lots of support from my training provider whilst working towards my qualification. They are very responsive and answer any queries I may have promptly and effectively. They put in regular catch up calls to discuss how we are getting on in the workplace and also to chat about workbooks.

I feel certain aspects of the qualification I am completing helps me perform better in my role. I think the qualification would help me to perform in any role and not specifically the one I am currently doing. This is because the workbooks are generic and not relevant to any one role. Overall though I feel it does benefit me as it provides me with skills which are beneficial in my role.

Yes there are loads of extra curricular activities to get involved in at my work. There are running and cycling clubs which I can join if I want to. There are also loads of professional networking events such as external training sessions we can attend and also attending careers fairs to help promote future Apprenticeships.

Yes

I would recommend M&G to a friend as it is a great place to work and great people work there and make it enjoyable to go to work. I would also recommend M&G because the support which is offered to you. There are mental health first aiders and many different people you can go to for support if needed.

I would advise people applying to M&G to try and practice delivering a presentation to a group of people as this is a regular thing you are tasked with throughout the Apprenticeship. I would also advise anyone applying to M&G to completely be their self on the assessment day as it is important to come across yourself.