Joshua Forster

I was placed in an insurance company which specialises in broking, where I had a chance to shadow experienced members of the Lloyds team each day, where they also set me challenging tasks linking to their speciality field for example, I was asked to examine a real-life case study which tested my analytical skills, attention to detail, time management, and research skills. Additionally, I was asked to present my own peace of data using different formats while using the statistics and facts which had been given to me. This allowed me to use my organisational skills, creativity, problem solving and persuasion skills. I also was asked to input important data in a real claim where I had to watch my mentor demonstrate it only once despite it being a complicated multiple step process. I was able to use my observation skills, improve my focus skills, and use my problem-solving skills but also perseverance and resilience as I did not get it right the first time but the second time, I was able to overcome this challenge and complete it effectively. Additionally, I managed to enhance my networking skills and made useful connections and friends which could benefit my future. Moreover, I had the chance to interact with apprentices who worked at the company, who shared their day-to-day experiences and their path leading up to where they are now. Finally, I also manage to improve my reflection and self-awareness. This was through reflecting on my day and making a summary each day but also taking the time to research the things I was interested in or didn't get a firm understanding of. Both of these placements have allowed me to develop my confidence and ability to communicate effectively with new people face to face and my reflection to see what I could have done differently in situations.

I was grateful to have taken part in the futures academy programme work experience where I travelled to central London to the Lloyds building where I learnt about specialty insurance and the different roles about the insurance industry. I also was able to talk to different specialists for example a hr team, brokers, underwriters and other members in senior roles. finally, I was able to take part in a number of workshops which tested my cooperation skills. this also included my time management, innovation and confidence which I used while presenting a group presentation to a panel of CEOs which allowed me to further develop my confidence Also, during the work experience, I was able to use the strengths profile I had filled out prior and tried to use my strengths effectively but also use this opportunity to improve my less developed areas. I also worked on my LinkedIn connections to help stay in contact with fellow members of the programme and the employers I had the pleasure of meeting. After my work experience, I was glad to have learnt more about speciality insurance and had started doing more research and possibly pursuing a career in the insurance industry.