So how did I get the apprenticeship?

One day when I was coming out of an A-Level geography exam, my head of sixth form called me to her office and passed on the application form to me. I immediately jumped on the opportunity. I knew about apprenticeships, but the fact it was at Rathbones was even better. They have been to my school many times to talk about the company, so I was aware of them. In the past, I have also done work experience at Rensburg Sheppards (now Investec), and my uncle works as a stockbroker and so hearing him talk about his work has meant an interest in the industry has always been there.

I sent off my application form, telling them as much as I could about myself. When I found out I had been shortlisted I was over the moon, but the fact that I would have to attend a whole week’s assessment programme was a bit daunting!

The week began at Rathbones, with about 15 of us nervously sitting in Rathbone Hall. The building is absolutely beautiful and walking in every day I don’t think will ever get old. We were told that we were going to be delivering a 10 minute presentation to 3 staff members on how we would spend as well as invest £100,000. How I was going to speak for ten minutes was my main concern! Tuesday and Wednesday was mainly preparation, and Thursday was presentation day. When I was about to go in, I was told it would not just be three members of staff, but 8 senior members, including the deputy COO!! It went by in a flash, as did the interview on the Friday. A much deserved McFlurry was needed that afternoon.

I was rang up the following Tuesday and was offered the position as an Operations Apprentice. There were three departments to choose from: Operations, IT and Tax & Trust - and I had picked Operations! I was so happy. I was told that for the first six months I would be working with CSD. CSD? What? But I know now that this is client static data.