Apprentice Economist Review

I was placed in the Department for Work and Pensions and my role is currently in the Pensions Division. I work on analysis around Pensioner benefits such as Pension Credit and Attendance allowance. On a day-to-day basis I respond to urgent No.10 requests, work on policy briefing, costing notes and general analysis in my area.

I have developed many skills since starting my role with the GES. Most notably, before starting this job I had never coded before. I now use coding software near enough every day and my confidence continues to grow the longer I work in the department. I feel as though this has been a huge benefit to my experience. I have also got better at using general computer software such as Excel. Along side this, I have also got better at presenting, team-working and time management.

I really enjoy the program! For me personally, I was not interested in the typical 'uni' experience and wanted to go into the working world. This degree apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to do both education and gain vital work experience. Not only that, the job itself is really interesting and enjoyable.

As a member of the first cohort the apprenticeship ever ran, there has been the odd organisational problem along the way! I suppose we are the 'guinea pigs' but the University and Department always take on our feedback and any of the teething issues have been sorted along the way. Apprentices since us have had a much smoother experience!

We receive a lot of support from our departments! We have regular catch ups with our 'apprentice grade managers' who look out for us along the way. We are provided with 20% a week study allocation which the GES always ensure we get, no matter how busy work may be! I feel well supported.

Every week we receive lecture recordings, slide packs, practice questions etc to help us with our learning. We also have live webinars with the lecturers on Friday's so we can ask any questions. We also have check-ins with an apprenticeship advisor from the University of Kent ever 6-8 weeks where we can feedback any problems.

It definitely helps to be studying an Economics degree at the same time as working as an economist. Our degree often tailors the modules to suit us working for government departments such as Public Economics and Policy Evaluation modules. This is beneficial as we can bring new outlooks and perspectives to our departments.

As apprentices we have social networking events that allow us to make friends across departments/locations also on the apprenticeship. There is also opportunities at work to get involved with corporate contributions relating to the economic profession. For example me and another apprentice are currently setting up 'coffee chats' in the office with other economists based in Sheffield.

Yes

I would 100% recommend the GES degree apprenticeship to a friend (and have done in the past!). It is an amazing opportunity to secure an economics degree whilst working for an extremely credible employer. You have no student debt, good pay & an enjoyable role to work in. In my opinion there is no better way of gaining an economics degree.

I would say not to worry about the economics knowledge you have before applying! That's not what the program is looking for (and you have plenty of time to learn that during the course). You should concentrate more on showing your personality at the interview! I feel like showing your interest in the role & why is the most important thing.