Financial Markets Apprentice Review

I am currently in the first year of my apprenticeship. I am sitting the CISI Capital Markets exams this year, so I dedicate a day a week to studying for these exams. I also have a number of "desk shadowings" or classroom teach-in sessions where I am able to get a brief overview of each desk and learn more about what they do on a day-to-day basis. Around twice a month, I take part in group presentations, where we present about topics like financial regulations, trade ideas, etc

I have learnt the importance of time management. While we do have scheduled sessions, there will be many pockets of time where I have to plan what I want to be doing. I have also had the opportunity to develop my public speaking skills when doing presentations. Networking is also another skill that I have had to develop.

I enjoy the programme a lot. I really like the fact that I am able to gain a holistic view of the business with all the desk shadowings I am able to be on. Everyone at the business is very friendly and ready to help or answer any questions that I may have.

It is pretty well organised. Standard Chartered has brought in Fitch Learning, an external learning provider, to provide the support that I need to pass the three CISI exams that I need to pass this year. My cohort was the second intake of apprentices, so there is definitely areas of improvement to be had in terms of structure, but the bank is generally very willing to take on feedback to improve.

I would say that I receive a decent amount of support from my employer. I have a sponsor and a buddy. My sponsor is also my line manager, and we have regular catch ups. My buddy supports me in terms of my transitions and integration into the workplace. I also have regular catch-ups with my buddy.

I receive a lot of support from my training provider. Fitch comes in for a two day in person session for each exam that I have to take. They also provide one to one surgery sessions. Their online materials include videos, slides, practice questions, and mocks. They are also ready to answer any questions I may have.

By the end of the apprenticeship, I will have hopefully passed the CISI Capital Markets Programme. This means that I will be a Certified Person, allowing me to carry out work in the financial markets. I will also have taken the CFA Level 1, thus gaining an in depth understanding of my role.

There are many extra-curricular activities at Standard Chartered. There are reading clubs, singing clubs, etc. The bank also has many volunteering opportunities. They also have several volunteering days during which you can volunteer for a cause of your choice. For instance, I am thinking of going to schools to promote this apprenticeship programme.

Yes

Standard Chartered has a good culture and unique footprint. Everyone is always willing to give you their time to teach you. Being a global bank with a lot of focus on emerging markets, there are lots of opportunities that you will not find elsewhere. For these reasons, Standard Chartered is a good place to start your career in finance.

I would advise that you research the company and be clear on why you are interested in Standard Chartered. Make sure that you understand what the role entails. Take part in a wide range of activities that allow you to develop skills such as resilience, adaptability, etc. Be confident, and inclusive to others' ideas.