Summer Intern - Continuous Improvement Analyst - Field Operations - Customer Operations Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed the summer placement - It was even better than I hoped it could have been. Starting the internship, with no prior experience in a working environment, I did not know what to expect. The placement allowed me to take responsibility of my own work, that was value-adding to the team. It gave me opportunities to really test myself and my ability, encouraging develop of skills and attributes which has bettered my personal and professional abilities. Centrica have been so welcoming, and helpful throughout the placement - I would definitely recommend applying!!

I feel very values, and welcomed, to the team I am working within. I am working within the continuous improvement team and have been given the lead on both of my projects. I have been working alongside my colleagues, as well as ensuring they give me feedback throughout the placement. They have been very welcoming throughout the placement.

Throughout my placement my line manager [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyPlacement Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] has been very supportive. We have had weekly 121 catch-ups where we have discussed the week so far, before planning the week ahead, where she would always ensure she helped where she possibly could - such as setting up a mock presentation with colleagues for me to practice my presenting skills. She has been a pleasure to work for. Not only have I received guidance and support by my line manager, but my colleagues, graduate board and current graduate team have been amazing. They have always been happy to call and talk over any queries I have had throughout the placement, as they want you to succeed!

Throughout the beginning of the placement I did not feel my work was really testing my ability, as it was mainly based around prepping for the projects to begin. However, once having started both projects (where I would have to continuously assess the progress of each project to update the various stakeholders) I was very busy (but not swamped with work). I prefer this, as I like to keep on my toes. Not only were the projects keeping me busy, but they were also value-adding to the team. I had free time each day, however I utilised this time by having the ability to go and sit with colleagues throughout the various departments (who were happy to explain their roles, learnings, and experiences within Centrica).

Throughout the placement I was tasked with leading two separate projects, where both were value-adding to the team. I had no prior experience with completing projects, especially in the areas the projects were based (creating a teamsite for the newly formed team, and creating a systems thinking tools/technique guide for the field operations). I was given any support I needed throughout this internship, from my line manager, colleagues, and the graduate interns in my locations.

The experiences, personal and professional development, and training in invaluable. Centrica ensured that we made the most of our internship through organising development training days (Excel training day, Charity fundraising day, and Presentation training day) and have ensured that they assist us with our personal development to the greatest of their ability. I have developed an understanding of how to interact with different types of individuals, for the greatest outcome (adaptability) - and I see this skill development being an invaluable one in the rest of my degree and future.

The office environment has been very warm and welcoming. Throughout the internship I have had the opportunity to go and sit with colleagues from a variety of departments - all whom have been happy to talk and share their experiences within the company. It was a good balance between formal and informal.

The placement was very well organised and executed. Throughout the placement we were able to attend development days organised by the company. These include a Excel training day, Charity training day and Presentation training day. These were all very useful and am happy I attended these. They also ensured that we had weekly calls with graduate interns to increase our networking ability, and learn more about the opportunities of the graduate scheme. Overall, very well organised.

As I have previously mentioned, they organised a variety of training days which has enabled development of a variety of skills and attributes. This has clearly shown how the company value their summer interns. Also, through being given the lead on two value-adding projects, it has made it clear that the company wish for us to show responsibility and personal development throughout the internship.

This is very appealing. I am currently applying (and hoping to be successful) in receiving an offer for the graduate programme within Centrica. I thoroughly enjoyed the summer internship and therefore would love the opportunity to further develop within the company.

During the placement, I was located in Manchester alongside 3 other summer interns. Obviously Manchester is a very 'active' place of an evening, where we constantly had opportunities of things to do. When travelling to Windsor for the training days we also were able to meet with the rest of the interns and socialise with them over dinner/drinks/activities (subsidised by the company).

The company paid for our accommodation throughout the internship and that was obviously amazing! We stayed in a Liberty accommodation. Since we had this paid for us, I was happy with the (slightly more expensive than usual) prices for travel, food, and socialising in Manchester.

During the placement, I was located in Manchester alongside 3 other summer interns. Obviously Manchester is a very 'active' place of an evening, where we constantly had opportunities of things to do. When travelling to Windsor for the training days we also were able to meet with the rest of the interns and socialise with them over dinner/drinks/activities (subsidised by the company).

I, alongside my fellow summer interns placed in Manchester, joined a local gym where we would go after work. Since the summer internship was 10 weeks, it was not long enough to be able to join a local football team. The gym enabled us to release some energy after work (as I never felt too exhausted by the work during the day). I am sure that there are loads of opportunities to get involved in activities within Manchester.