HMRC Review

I am currently undertaking the departmental training along side completing the apprenticeship. I am based in Hidden Economy, HMRC. This department deals with individuals who are not declaring any income which they should be to HMRC. My daily role at the moment involves completing the reading material, completing exams and helping out members of my team to gain practical experience. It will evolve to carrying out my own compliance checks in the next few weeks.

The workplace environment is one that I have not had previous experience of working in. I think this has highlighted for me the need of communication, and working as a team. Networking will open up new opportunities and be useful for identifying new ways of working. The apprenticeship qualifications - which is a Level 4 HNC in Business Admin has allowed me to make connections between my role and the business environment. It has also been useful for a basic understanding of some of the customers I may deal with.

I am enjoying the programme and do not have any regrets to choosing this path. I knew I did not want to go to university and this seemed different to anything else that was on offer. I think it really suits my learning needs as I can develop my skills and be in a workplace environment at the same time.

I am always involved as a member of the team and our insight into ideas/projects is always appreciated as a different viewpoint to others who are stuck in their ways of working.

The programme itself is well structured and fits well around the job role, however I think they lack organisation throughout the recruitment process as a whole.

Full support has been given throughout the training programme, any queries are answered quickly and the support and guidance which is given is always useful.

Have not been assigned a mentor yet, do not feel there is support from my employer other than through my line manager. However, my line manager is supportive in any concerns I have.

Salary suits my needs at the moment but in the future would need to look for alternatives to increase my salary in order to meet living costs etc.

I know the Civil Service offer opportunities outside of work but this is not something I have looked into so I can not really comment on this. I have not directly been made aware of any opportunities outside of work.

Yes

I think the Civil Service can offer a career which would suit a wide range of individuals. As the organisation is so broad, there are many different roles which may appeal to an individual. There are many opportunities for progression such as the Fast Stream, even without a degree once you are a Civil Servant.

Be aware of situations where you have demonstrated skills which may be attractive to your employer rather than simply stating what you are good at. The Civil Service is an organisation which is interested in how you do something just as well as what you have done. Get involved and use your time in the interview to show your value and what contribution you would make to the Civil Service!