Thinking of doing an apprenticeship? We caught up with Russ and Will who talked to us about their experiences so far.
What made you choose LEBC Group for your apprenticeship?
Russ: I chose the LEBC apprenticeship program as it looked like it would provide a great start to my goal of becoming a Financial Adviser. I’m keen to become a Financial Adviser as I want to help clients with important and potentially difficult decisions about their money.
Will: I chose LEBC for my apprenticeship because they offered a really good programme and looked like an interesting business to work for. They were very approachable and helpful in supporting my move to Bristol from Devon for the role. When I started, everybody was so welcoming which made it easy to get to grips with things and settle in.
What have you learnt?
Russ: I have been set many different tasks during my time at LEBC, which was a steep learning curve as I had no prior experience. From these tasks I have learnt the importance of all stages of providing financial advice. The advice presented to clients by the adviser is important, but it requires everyone across the business to play their part in order for us to succeed in helping all our clients reach their financial goals.
Will: I’ve learnt a lot during my time at LEBC. I’m now much more comfortable using Excel having been set a wide range of data entry tasks which required using it. I’ve developed a good understanding of the administrative role and am able to carry out daily admin responsibilities confidently. Furthermore, my organisational skills have improved which helps me to be more productive on a daily basis.
What has surprised you about the apprenticeship?
Russ: The most surprising aspect of the apprenticeship has to be working with different departments and learning their purpose and how they operate. Being able to see what other departments do, has opened my eyes to what providing financial advice actually consists of.
Will: I have been most surprised by the variety of different tasks I have had to complete in my role. The company has many different teams and I have been able to help out all over the business, which has really expanded my knowledge of business and financial services. In addition, I’m able to get help whenever required as everyone is so supportive with someone always on hand to answer any questions.
What has been your best moment of your apprenticeship?
Russ: The best moment of the apprenticeship so far has been the group’s Christmas conference, where many employees of LEBC and Aspira were in attendance. It was refreshing to be able to talk with fellow colleagues in person rather than over Teams or Zoom. The highlight of the night would have to be the guest speaker Kate Richardson-Walsh, whose speech was inspiring and motivational.
Will: The best moment of my apprenticeship so far was receiving the High 5 Award voted for by my colleagues. Getting recognised for your hard work is very rewarding and LEBC have been really good at doing that during my time here which helps to motivate me and boost my morale.
How has your apprenticeship changed your career plan?
Russ: This apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to see the many different job opportunities that lie within a Financial Services business and I’m keen to explore these further. However, my main aim is still to eventually become a Financial Adviser.
Will: The apprenticeship has changed my career plans as it has given me a great insight into the world of financial services. Having had this experience and following all the support I have had here at LEBC, I have decided that the next step of my career will be to develop into a client support role.