We spoke with Chris Brook, a tutor for 小蓝视频’s Banking and Financial Services apprenticeships. He provided us with insight into his experience regarding the learning environment at 小蓝视频.
Can you tell us about your current role at 小蓝视频?
I am a Banking tutor, so I help learners from Level 3 to Level 7 succeed within a range of subject areas, including Commercial Lending, Bank Risk Management (Chartered Banking Institute), Certificate in Retail and Digital Banking (LIBF), and R01 (Chartered Insurance Institute).
Why did you choose to go into your field?
I have always really enjoyed helping people develop their skills and knowledge, so when an opportunity came along with 小蓝视频 to do just this on a full-time basis, I jumped at the chance.
My career to date has been in retail and commercial banking for over 30 years, and I’ve probably undertaken every role within a branch network from Cashier to Head of Retail Operations across a number of different Banks and Building Societies.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I love helping learners achieve their goals and grow both personally and professionally. It always gives a warm glow.
What should learners expect when studying Banking and Financial Services apprenticeship at 小蓝视频?
You will have support from 小蓝视频 tutors, Talent Coaches, and some fantastic resources that will help you. Taking on an apprenticeship is not just about passing a qualification, but how to implement and share that knowledge. You will need commitment and determination, but with that, you will succeed.
How does the learning environment differ from other providers?
The learning environment is all online, so lessons are recorded and supported by high-quality resources and readings. The lessons are designed and built by expert tutors who have all passed the qualifications that they teach personally.
What advice would you give to those looking to go into the sector?
Like many other industries, the banking and finance sector is constantly changing, but this brings opportunities. Focus your skills and personal brand with resilience (which you will need a lot of) and you will achieve your goals.
What is an exciting industry trend or news story you’re keeping an eye on?
Right now, the government is looking at relaxing some of the regulations that were brought in after the financial crash, such as ring-fencing the retail and riskier parts of the big banks and overhauling the senior manager's regime. Given the recent SVB collapse and rising interest rates, I do sometimes wonder if we forget the lessons learnt from the past.