Project Management Apprentice Review

The role of a project manager is to simply progress a project from start to finish and achieve its objectives within time, quality and budget constraints. Daily tasks can vary depending on the stage of the project but general tasks include: monitoring the projects programme to ensure activities are being delivered on time, leading weekly progress meetings, producing, reviewing and signing key project documentation. It is a responsibility of a project manager to engage effectively with the projects stakeholders. On a daily basis this is with the internal project team including engineers, construction manager, planner and commercial manager. If the project is in contract daily interactions would be expected with the external suppliers. This is to help keep all stakeholders informed of project progress and encourage them to keep delivering the project successfully.

I've learnt a range of new skills on the scheme such as: building a projects programme, creating a risk, issues and opportunities register and how to monitor these, and how to make changes to a project through the change management process. Skills I've developed on the scheme is definitely my leadership and team work skills, by leading different projects and working collaboratively with various team members.

I've thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship scheme as helping a project progress into it's operational outcome feels very rewarding and exciting. Also, Transport for London is really interesting to work for as it's a huge organisation with an extensive range of projects varying in size. Also, it's a significant part of London and its projects are vital to keeping London moving.

The apprenticeship was structured extremely well by TfL. The scheme is rotational so you experience a different project every 6 months which is beneficial in developing your skills and knowledge. Frequent catch ups and reviews were in place with the apprenticeship leader, where any queries or concerns could be discussed. Based on my experience, TfL were extremely supportive of their apprenticeships and truly cared about their success and development

Transport for London are an extremely supportive employer. During my time on the scheme I had a few personal issues which I needed to raise and the employer would do everything they could to help me. Also, the company were always offering various training courses to help personal development. The wellbeing and development of the individual was definitely priority at TfL.

I received lots of support from TfL. As part of the scheme, I took the APM PMQ exam, which is a 3 hour exam covering a lot of content. From the outset of the scheme, we were entitled to take 1 study day per week where we could focus on the qualification. Also, nearer to the exam I was allowed to take additional study days in order to feel best prepared and confident.

The APM PMQ qualification has helped me thoroughly understand all project management theories and concepts. After completing the exam, I feel the knowledge I learnt helped me understand my projects better and as a result carry out tasks more confidently and successfully. The qualification content is very detailed and covers all areas of project management, so is a key asset that's helped me perform better in my role.

Team socials happen quite frequently at TfL, whether it's a festive celebration, birthday, promotion or just a bonding social. These are great as they allow you to create new networks which could be useful for your role. Also, TfL do offer sport teams including football and netball clubs. In addition to this, TfL have various networking groups for example the Women's Colleague Network Group.

Yes

Working for a company which has such a significant impact on London is extremely interesting, and they offer various areas of work. I believe there would be something for everyone is this company. Also, the support and benefits they provide to their employees is outstanding. Overall, it's a very enjoyable company to work for.

I would advise to be yourself and consider all the experiences you've had that can link to the role you'd like to apply for. Also, be creative and unique where you can, TfL encourages new ideas and are always looking to make improvements where they can. Lastly, take time to thoroughly develop your application and prepare for the interview. Put your all into it.