Product Development Analyst Review
at Lloyds Banking Group
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Banking
London
Review Submitted: February 2024
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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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 work in Business and Commercial Banking in a Product Development role which is varied and includes stakeholder engagement/networking, reviewing documents, etc. No day is the same and allows me to take on as much responsibilities as I want.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I feel very satisfied coming to work and look forward to actually achieving goals at work. I feel like I'm making a difference.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
How to network effectively and the importance of this, how to be personally responsible and more independent for the roles I'm involved in, and how to manage my time more effectively to balance my studying and working.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My learning programme is offered by Kaplan and they have a clear, easy to follow structured approach with regards to modules and what we need to be working on at each point in time. My line manager involves me in meaningful work and tries to integrate my apprenticeship where possible.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Lloyds are so supportive as an employer and always assess your workload and how you are coping. They are aware when you are new to role, that things can be overwhelming and you may need extra support. I also feel valued as a member of the team that can make a difference. The pay package and ability to flexibly work is a big support.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Regular catch ups with my talent coach to gauge my progress and support is offered when I may be struggling. Resources are constantly shared for me to improve. It is a well structured programme where tutor sessions occur (almost) every week with extra support offered around sessions.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
20% of the working week is dedicated solely to my apprenticeship which means that I can focus on my learning and not worry about being behind on work-related activities. This means that I learn more detail about things we may not have the time to fully explain in the workplace. I have been able to relate my learning to financial processes that happen within my job, which makes it even more rewarding when you know why we do certain things.
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
There are a number of communities and networks to get involved in i.e. REACH for BAME minority groups and the Rainbow network for LGBTQ+ colleagues. There are a number of social events and volunteering opportunities within these. Also, my employer sometimes gets colleagues involved in offsites which provide learning opportunities but also a way to socialise. There are always professional networking events and conferences on offer throughout the year.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Lloyds Banking Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The pay package is one of the best in the field for apprenticeships. This matters because I haven't had to worry about how I'm going to pay the bills in London. I can do my job effectively because of this. Also, Lloyds are so supportive and really care about investing in you. You feel a part of the family immediately. There are also so many growth opportunities for you to develop your career and progress beyond where you would expect to. You are supported to go beyond your comfort zone.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Lloyds Banking Group?
Get your applications in quickly as sometimes applications close early due to so much interest. Just go for it as you have nothing to lose but everything to gain.
