Project manager Review

by Transport for London

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

TfL eases you into the role. Depending on your placement manager and project the tasks and role will be different. I have been an Assistant Sponsor for new cycle lanes and am currently working as an Assistant Project Manager in London Underground Signalling. Day to day I help with work and attend meetings.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt the process of project management and have spent time learning the theory and terminology of it through the APM qualification that I'm undertaking. This has all been new to me.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I'm really enjoying it. The tutor is friendly and supportive. So far the people at TfL have been understanding and keen to share their experience.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Our scheme is generally well organised. Like all large companies sometimes there's confusion/lack of communication of what is happening within the business and how this will affect the scheme. There was also some confusion when we will be taking the APM exam. They haven't left a lot of time for any resits and this has caused some people a lot of added stress and pressure.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

We have a line manager who is available if we have any problems or questions. We also get a placement manager to teach us on the job training. Before the furlough we had face to face meetings throughout the placement.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

We have had a lot of support from our trainer for the APM exam. However, I do feel there should have been more group revision sessions to go back over old topics. This is pretty much left to yourself. I have heard previous years had another training provider and they had a whole week of revision before the exam.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I think the training really does help you understand the processes and terminology whilst at work.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Before Covid there were lots of events. I really liked the site visits that allowed you to go and see what other areas and projects there are within TfL. This also allowed you to meet other people which was really good for contacts. I'm not sure how this will change going forward but the site visits would be a shame to cancel.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Transport for London to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The pay isn't too bad and there are lots of opportunities. The training is good for the project management industry and TfL currently has lots of projects. The people are friendly and supportive which really makes it a nice place to work.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Transport for London?

Be yourself and prepare for the interview.