Supply Chain Higher Apprentice Review

My 2 year apprenticeship involves 4x6 month rotations around different departments in the Business Planning and Supply Chain area of Tata Steel UK. My first rotation was as part of automotive order management, where I manage the stock levels and help prioritise stock replenishment for Large OEM companies across Europe.

As my role is very computer based, I have developed my knowledge on computer and coding systems, my knowledge on office software has also been enhanced. My role is also very collaborative, so I have increased my people skills and my ability to present infront of others has developed well.

I enjoy the programme very much, and would highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in supply chain and logistics. Tata Steel Uk is such a vast company that there will be a roll to suit everyone. The opportunity for experience and progression is great and you are always able to shine.

The process from application to tests to interview to employment was very well structured and communicated well. As well as a company wide induction day where we got to learn more about the course and the company itself, we also had the opportunity to meet the other apprentices in the intake.

Our employer is well connected to us and our role with many opportunities for connection. Whether that be through a new buddy scheme which partners us up with an experienced member of the workforce to be able to develop our knowledge from them. Or through our support line managers and senior teams which are all engaged and welcoming of the cohort.

Monthly meetings with my assessor to ensure we are hitting targets, progress reviews and easily accessible to contact if help is needed. We are often set targets for the next session, including topics for professional discussions, and topics for learning and expanding knowledge upon. We are always progressing to help complete work in plenty of time.

The qualification is very driven in line with our work role, including projects in line with our company, such as swot and pestle analysis of our company and competitors. Similarly, being able to use my projects from my work role and then to use them to explain knowledge in my qualification.

The work space is very social, including monthly office events, including tea and toast, and cake events. Or outside of work such as get togethers, for walks or events. The company was very welcoming, and I felt like I was able to fit in with many social groups in the office.

Yes

It is a company of vast opportunities, so there is a role for everyone to enjoy and progress in. There is room for great learning and great progression, whether that be linearly, or laterally. There are so many options for work in Tata Supply Chain, whether hands on or office based

Just be yourself, and have a passion for learning. Any company is looking for someone who can develop and learn and help progress the business, so having the drive and passion is essential. Projects are a big thing in tata so if you have an option to be part of one, do it.