it solutions technician Review

by Transport for London

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.8/10

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

I sit in different areas as placements and will observe different teams, to understand better their roles and how they affect the greater organisation. I will perform tasks set by those I am placed with. Whilst doing so I am expected to complete 7.5 hours of off the job learning per week.

10/10

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

Yes. I learnt many skills including SQL coding for example. I have been able to develop my knowledge of the use of Microsoft office, meaning I can produce better excel or word documents for example. I am gaining a better understanding of technology and data as a collective in TFL too.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really do enjoy my programme. It pushes me to learn more about IT and specifically about the IT use in TFL. I am highly motivated for my role as I want to pursue a career in IT but also with Transport for London. I am looking forward to my future there.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

In terms of the organisation, some days are better than others, I think its fair to say the unprecedented times has really affected everyone's day to day way of working and I can understand sometimes it is hard to find time to spend with the apprentices, but it is very clear they're trying their best.

7/10

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

My employer; Transport for London to put it simply has been a breath of fresh air. There is an ethos here that they really care about the wellbeing of their staff and I have always felt comfortable voicing any of my concerns and they have dealt with it all professionally.

10/10

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

As I haven't been an apprentice before its hard to determine the quality of the support. I would say its been 'okay' I feel like there should be more of an urgency in feedback for coursework. However I have no experience with any other training providers so its hard to compare.

6/10

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

At this moment in time it is hard to say, I am due to attend my first 3 day course with Firebrand. So far any independent learning I have done links well with any tasks I have been set or content I am shown. Hopefully it will help in the future.

8/10

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.)

I try to attend as many social events as possible be it virtual. From what I see I think TFL interacts with their colleagues very well and their is always opportunity for attending different group meetings for example Well-ment a mental health group run by employees of the business, where they host weekly events.

9/10

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

Yes

9b. Why?

So far TFL have been a perfect employer to me, supplying me with all the equipment to work virtually and all the support to take part in this apprenticeship, where possible I always recommend TFL to friends looking for apprenticeship opportunities. I feel proud to be part of an organisation like this.

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

Just be yourself. I wasn't the brightest candidate for sure but as long as you show the right motivation for the role and genuinely believe it is for you, you should have a good chance. And be patient applications can take a long time and employers appreciate candidates who are patient.