HR (Part Time) Review

As a People Operations Coordinator, I provide first‑line people support to colleagues, managers and HR teams across the business, delivering accurate and customer‑focused HR administration across the colleague lifecycle. My role involves resolving day‑to‑day HR queries, working closely with stakeholders across the wider business, and supporting People Operations projects that improve processes, systems and colleague experience. I also identify and contribute to continuous improvement opportunities using data, trends and feedback, while balancing operational delivery with project work and my ongoing development. Alongside my role, I have 6 hours per week protected study time to support my apprenticeship and professional development.

The programme is very well organised and clearly structured. Tasks are easy to find and it’s always clear what needs to be completed and by when. Key dates for reviews and workshops are communicated well in advance, which allows me to plan my workload and development effectively. I also have good visibility of the topics scheduled throughout the remainder of the apprenticeship, so I know what’s coming up from now through to completion. This structure makes it easy to stay on track and feel confident in managing the programme alongside my role.

I receive a high level of support from my employer throughout the programme. My study time is protected and there is flexibility to take this when it works best for me, rather than only when it is most convenient operationally. I’m also supported with study materials where needed, including help with reading and assignments.
In addition, my employer actively supports my development by enabling shadowing opportunities, helping me connect with different departments, and offering suggestions to broaden my learning and experience. This level of support makes it much easier to balance the apprenticeship alongside my role and get the most value from the programme.

I receive a strong level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. My skills coach provides clear guidance by breaking down tasks and requirements, and there is always time built in to ask questions or clarify anything I am unsure about. These sessions are scheduled in advance, which helps me plan and feel prepared.
I’m also able to contact my skills coach by email between sessions if I need additional support, and responses are usually provided within a day or so. In addition, the workshops delivered by another coach are very informative and thorough, particularly in explaining assignment requirements and the best ways to approach and complete them. Overall, the support is consistent, accessible and really helps me stay on track with my apprenticeship.

My qualification supports my performance in my role really well. It helps me build knowledge and understanding of areas and departments that I don’t yet have direct experience in, which broadens my overall HR perspective. Learning more about employment legislation has also strengthened my confidence and accuracy in day‑to‑day work.
I’m able to clearly relate my learning back to the business and apply it in practical ways, using techniques and approaches from the course in my everyday role. I regularly share what I learn with the team, which helps spread knowledge and improve ways of working.

Yes

I would absolutely recommend B&Q to a friend. The culture and organisation are very welcoming and make you feel at home from the start. The office is a great space with excellent on‑site facilities, which really supports day‑to‑day working.
There are lots of opportunities to progress and gain experience in different departments and roles, including through secondments. The teams are genuinely supportive and flexible, and the hybrid working approach makes it easier to balance work and personal commitments. Overall, it’s a really positive place to work.