Executive Officer Review

I work in the Information, Data and Analysis directorate. My work is primarily focused on building reports and dashboards and carrying out other information retrieval for operational colleagues. I use tools such as Power BI, Python and SQL.

Loads of new skills, I started from zero and now feel confident in using the following for data analysis activities: Power BI, Python, SQL. I have also been given a lot of opportunity to develop soft skills like networking, presentation and communication.

The Valuation Office Agency aspect of my programme has been perfect, they give me all the support I need to learn. The QA side has been good overall but definitely frustrating at times either with content that is too easy/dull or poor teaching.

The main problem with the structure of the programme is that by the time I am being taught how to do something by the apprenticeship provider, I have already learnt how to do it at a higher level through work alone.

Lots of support, I am given all the time I need to complete any apprenticeship activities and actively encouraged to seek out additional learning opportunities too. My manager consistently checks in and ensures I have everything I need.

My digital learning consultant at QA is very efficient, provides detailed answers to questions and pushes me to do my best possible work. Conversations could be more conversational, a lot of time is dedicated to less useful checkbox exercises but I appreciate that is beyond their control.

The content is often too basic. I do learn some stuff, especially theoretical, through the training provider but my technical skills are rarely pushed through the content provided by the training provider. Primarily they have been useful revision/practice but they could be more than that.

Yes, I have been attending semi-frequent socials with other members of my directorate based in Manchester and have attended a couple of away days that have both been useful for networking. I have not necessarily explored the full extent of other opportunities.

Yes

It has been a really positive, development-centric place to work. I have not come across a single negative individual. I have been given ample scope to push myself and develop my skills.

Focus on your civil service behaviours, they are really important. I applied through GSS who placed me at VOA so it is worth exploring the opportunities available through GSS.