Production Apprentice Review

I work within the Public Engagement team, helping to organise, advertise, and deliver tours and events within the BBC Cymru Wales, as well as acting as an outreach representative for the recruitment team.

My role is extremely varied, and will often mean I have to pick up pieces of work I didn't expect. I don't think my role entirely aligns to the Production Apprenticeship I'm on, as it's not as straightforward as creating content compared to other placements at the BBC, but it keeps me on my toes and I believe it's making me prepared for a role outside of the media and broadcasting industry for the future.

My employer is extremely supportive and encourages me to take as many opportunities as possible to gain new skills and broaden my knowledge or skillset. There hasn't been a moment where I don't feel like my apprenticeship is prioritised because I'm on a limited contract.
Because a lot of young people at the BBC are on limited full-time contracts or freelancing, from many discussions I've had, I don't get the impression young people's career paths are taken seriously in BBC Cymru Wales because there isn't space within the organisation to advance further. In places like London or Manchester, these opportunities are plenty because more programmes are being created from these sites. Content creation for social media only seems to be a priority for Radio and Sports.

There have been times where I'd like to receive more support when choosing workplace units relevant to my placement. My placement isn't as straightforward as other placement opportunities within the BBC where apprentices are creating content. My role covers a wide variety of areas, from hospitality, marketing, admin, strategy, etc. There's no specialisation within any areas in media and broadcasting, which has made it challenging to see how a production apprenticeship suits my placement.
Otherwise, my training provider has been incredible supportive, and for the small team they are, have delivered no end of unswerving attention to ensure that apprentices have a good experience and support them with their placement or any issues at work they're having.

Engaging with other apprentices has certainly helped me understand all aspects of media and broadcasting, as well as helping me identify which skills and knowledge I'd like to develop across the wider business. My understanding and awareness of audiences in the public engagement team have also helped other apprentices, too.

Yes

There's no end of opportunities to shadow different departments or get involved on projects in collaboration within other departments. There will always be someone backing you and someone to talk to about your worries or concerns.