Apprentice Economist Review

by Government Economic Service

Rating

9.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

My role involves evaluating government projects and programmes, using R and excel to model effectiveness. I work with analysts and policy teams from other departments and get to contribute to a wide range of different projects.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Lots! I've learnt coding as well as excel, and I've had the chance to contribute to business cases, cost-benefit analyses, impact assessments and more.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the learning and the day job, but the workload can be very intensive to keep up with both. Managers at work have always been very supportive in their flexibility with work around busy exam periods, but a slower pace would have enabled me to enjoy it more.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very well structured, and the University is very receptive to feedback.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Extremely supportive, and they are in contact with the University for advice on how they can best support our learning.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

A lot of support, and flexibility of workload around busy periods.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I wouldn't be able to do my role without the skills and knowledge I've learned through my degree. Sometimes it's not always been apparent that I'd use the skills learnt in the modules, but later I've been able to put them to use in my day job.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Lots!

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Government Economic Service to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Very supportive, even when you're struggling to manage balancing the work and studying.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Government Economic Service?

Go for it! Don't doubt yourself, you'll be able to ask for help and support if you need it. And good luck!