Services Controls Apprentice Review
at NatWest Group
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Finance
Edinburgh
Review Submitted: March 2022
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
5/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I am involved with regulation & Horizon scanning within the bank. I work with a leadership team to ensure that all aspects of what we do is compliant with our regulators rules. I get involved with ensuring the correct controls are in place and are tested for resilience. I have the oppertunities to work on various projects across our business area.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I absolutely love my job!!!! I have the flexibility to work hours that suit me and my outside commitments. I have a very healthy work life balance. The fact that i can obtain a qualification at my age at the same time as being in a job i enjoy is a complete bonus!
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learned a vast amount in this role. I learn the history of banking as well as present time - this gives me a fundamental understanding of banking and why certain aspects of banking are as they are. I have been able to develop and present presentations to large audiences, get involved in various projects and certification processes. My confidence in my own ability is growing every day!
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My mentor has set out a plan to ensure i move around each department within our business area to learn as much as i possible can. This has the flexibility for me to pick my own route should i wish to do so meaning i can develop skills of choice and forge a career path in the areas i enjoy working in and explore different opportunities along the way.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My employers provide a lot of support ! I am supported in my role on a daily basis should i require it, we have regular catch ups to ensure they are providing me with the tools i need to progress. The bank offers a huge amount of support around wellbeing, health packages and insurances, private healthcare, great pension schemes, the list goes on!
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
My trainer is available to me for any questions or instruction i need. They upload learnings to my log on point regularly. We have catch up meetings to talk about progress/any additional support i need. I can speak with her to discuss how best to present my evidence for assessments to be sure i understand what is required.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel that it makes me focus more on each part of a process and evaluate exactly why the step is important. It makes me take a moment to really think about how i communicate with others and what i can take from feedback to improve my own skills and develop better relationships in the work place.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes we do over incentives to get involved with. Covid rules meant we done things a little differently this last past years. We have a strong focus on physical and mental wellbeing so regularly set up challenges between teams encouraging us to get to know others. We are big on networking also so we actively encourage people to connect and build their networks for development
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend NatWest Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The environment i am in is really friendly. There are no feelings of hierarchy in the bank, we have great leaders and encourage progression and development. There are many opportunities to learn and expand skills and move on to other areas of the bank. Our managers support us to be the best we can be!
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NatWest Group?
Take the plunge! There are so many opportunities at the moment. The apprenticeships and graduate programs are great and will set you up for a career. You will be able to explore various areas of the bank and you are highly supported to develop skills and knowledge. Everyone is very welcoming and will support you in your career journey.
