This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
I worked in a great team in Cardiff. All really friendly and driven while maintaining a work life balance. I was allowed to experience different areas of interest within the bank, as well as take time for individual training for personal development rather than just development training within the role.
There is an expectation on the output of IPs at Lloyd's but this is along with a load of support from your team. I became really close friends with my manager, my team and others that worked in Cardiff. Did loads of socials together, and now have friends I can call on for job references or a good time in Cardiff.
Completely supported throughout the year within the role and personally. Advised to complete personal linkedin training while subscription was funded by the bank within work time. Supported but still given the stage to excel and present your ability to other colleagues.
My role was regulatory focused with deadlines and pressure in the first 3 weeks of the month which eased off towards the end of the month. Good balance of pressure working with time for reflection and development.
At the end of my placement now I am expected to communicate directly with other teams as an analyst, pro-actively respond to senior management queries and present in meetings with senior management. A lot of support and guidance was provided to get to this point.
I believe the skills developed at university better supported the role than the other way round. However the further skills developed within the role are invaluable for future employment.
The Company
Based in Cardiff there was a great social atmosphere. No intimidating hierarchy. Could speak with anyone and feel comfortable. Introduced to loads of new contacts by my line manager.
Initially was pretty well set up, but due to a re-structure and covid 19 requirements of the role stepped up. I've enjoyed this challenge and feel has been crucial in my development.
Paid for linkedin training as well as the companies own internal training applications. Spent time training in VBA, Python and SQL which weren't required in my role but are beneficial for future employment. Also plenty of sources and training around socio-economic responsibilty.
Flexi Time
Subsidised Canteen
Subsidised/Company Gym
Working from home
After completing the placement there is now a graduate scheme fast track application in place. You can apply for an area irrespective of your role e.g. I worked in risk but applied for finance and have an Assessment Centre in January.
The Culture
11 of us on placement in Cardiff in total. First 6 weeks completed SAS and values training together. A community lead is nominated who organises regular socials. All similar people with similar interests, all up for a good night out.
I lived just outside of Cardiff so needed to plan for any socials outside of work. Cost of living is good and cost of food for lunch is quite expensive but some great places to eat. Going out for lunch is a good way to introduce yourself and socialise with your team.
Cardiff night life is very good. Planned loads of socials with guys from work as well as with friends outside of work. Good restaurants, loads of cinemas or bowling and clubs.
In Cardiff they run 5 aside football and Badminton sessions weekly. Also can join the Charity team and help raise money for mental health UK.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
Wales
June 2020