Business Apprentice Trainee Review

I am on a 3 year scheme where i undertake a Business Management Degree alongside taking part in 6 x 6 month placements over the 3 years. I take part in meetings as well as have my own responsibilities and deliverables for projects. I am coming to the end of my first placement and am preparing to move onto another department.

I have developed a wide array of skills within the past 6 months. Despite the obvious academic knowledge I have learnt from my University Studies, i have learnt various transferrable skills related to professionalism and skills for the corporate workplace. Even the simple things like writing an email properly, conducting yourself on virtual meetings and more. Those are elements not taught in a school environment, but skills gained with work experience.

I really enjoy this programme. I feel i have developed significantly in so many aspects. I really like the flexibility within the variety of placements i am able to experience and the level of development there is available to me. I certainly feel this is the best of both worlds as i achieve a degree while gaining experience. Which essentially accelerates my career to a higher degree than those just finishing university.

The induction and virtual onboarding was really organised with a succinct structure in place. We also have soft skills training organised far in advance that develops our soft skills.

There is a lot of support available. We have a career manager, placement manager and of course programme manager (HR). There is emotional as well as developmental support which is really well-rounded. We also have a 'buddy' from the cohort above. Meaning there is a lot of available support to assist with any queries or issues.

I feel that University offers less support than our employer does. In terms of feedback on work and academic support, its certainly not as strong. However, this may be due to University being virtual. I do enjoy studying for my degree and i like the structure of having uni every friday. However, i feel the academic support could be improved as its certainly a jump from A levels to Degree study, and naturally we dont have as much time to study as ordinary Uni students

Personally, my experience so far has not required me to use theoretical knowledge learnt from my degree. I certainly feel i have learnt more in the workplace such as project management skills for example to apply to my role.

Naturally due to COVID this is hard to comment on. But there are a lot of wellbeing and social activities being put on.

Yes

They have a really positive culture with a strong initiative for Wellbeing - especially during this time of COVID. I feel this is a sustainable and successful industry to go into which is promising for my career. Everyone is very friendly. I would 100% recommend.

To be confident. Understand how your own values and experiences correspond to Lloyd's values and competencies. Take time to understand the way Lloyd's works - the structure isn't the same as ordinary companies.