Pension Administrator Apprentice Review

My role involves working within a team to administer the pensions of a large pension fund. I can undertake a variety of tasks in any day. Some of these tasks include calculating members' retirement benefits, calculating transfer values for members leaving the fund, updating member details and responding to member queries.

In my role I have learnt various different skills. I have developed both my team working and independent working skills. I have also learnt a lot about pensions and how they are invested and administered. I have training most weeks to further my knowledge of the pension industry and I am constantly learning more about pensions. Studying toward qualifications with the PMI always allows me to gain further knowledge into the industry.

The work is rewarding as you are assisting members with their finances in retirement or in preparation for retirement. Barnett Waddingham have also been very supportive in my training and very welcoming. I enjoy working with my team who are always happy to help with any questions I have about my work.

I believe that the apprenticeship is very well organised. I had an initial induction with the training provider who have regular catch up calls with me to ensure I am on track with my work. I know when to expect to receive new training materials for my next exam and when the exams are well in advance.

I am very well supported by Barnett Waddingham. I have an apprentice mentor at Barnett Waddingham who I can contact if I have any questions regarding the apprenticeship and we also schedule monthly calls. On top of that, I also have a 'buddy' on my team who can assist me with any work related questions as well as other colleagues who are more than happy to help.

I have a skills coach from the training provider (The growth company) who I speak to on a monthly basis to ensure I am up to date and where I need to be. I have access to all the support I need and I am able to access training materials for my next exams. The growth company are very enthusiastic in their support and I feel well supported by them.

The knowledge I learn through my studies is directly applicable to my role. As I learn more it allows me to understand more about my job and the different legislation involved in the pensions industry. I have put what I have learnt into practice on a regular basis and feel that I know more about the industry as a result of my studies.

I joined the company during the COVID-19 pandemic so there are not any social activities that I have been able to get involved with as of yet. I know that before the pandemic they had sports clubs and quiz nights for people to get involved with and I believe this will start again as soon as it is safe to do so.

Yes

It's a very welcoming company that puts a lot of time and effort into training and developing employees/apprentices. I really enjoy working for the company. There are opportunities for progression and further training also. Everyone has been very supportive and the company has done a great deal to further my development.

Research Barnett Waddingham and what the role will involve. The application process was really welcoming and not as daunting as I expected it to be so try and be as comfortable as you can. Ask lots of questions in your interview to give you the best chance of finding out if the role is right for you as well.