Apprentice Economist Review

Providing analysis to policy teams. Gathering data from a variety of sources using a number of different programming languages to pull together and provide meaningful analysis of data. Being able to interpret and draw conclusions from this data and present them to non-technical colleagues in a way that they can understand.

Ability to rigorously analyse complex information and data, drawing on economics knowledge and applying it to questions of interest for the organisation, while being aware of the limitations of economic analysis and the available data. Ability to clearly communicate economic concepts, analysis or advice, risks and uncertainty. Ability to review and quality assure the analysis of others to ensure it is of high quality.

While there were teething problems to begin with as I'm a part of the first cohort for this apprenticeship, overall it has been thoroughly enjoyable. University staff are approachable, friendly and understanding that you are trying to complete a degree whilst also working full time. Colleagues within work have been flexible and supportive to allow me to be successful within my apprenticeship.

The programmed is very well structured. Requirements for each module and text and essay deadlines are made clear from the start allowing you to effectively plan your study. When there have been issues i.e. too many exams in a short amount of time. The university has been willing to listen and adapt to students needs.

During my apprenticeship i have had three different line managers all of whom have been aware of the pressures that studying while working can have on a person. Each has actively protected my study time and encouraged me to make sure i use my full entitlement to study leave. Whenever i have had issues they have been very supportive and willing to speak up on my behalf.

Each student is assigned a apprenticeship adviser who is able to help with any issues you may have and makes sure that you are keeping on track and is the first port of call for any problems. Lecturers have all been friendly and approachable so overall i feel that the support has been of a high quality.

Whilst not all the learning is not directly applicable to the role, it does provide the building blocks and key skills that will make sure you can be successful in your role. The qualifications usefulness is helping you to develop analytical skills that can be applied in the work place.

There are plenty of extra curricular activities for those interested in them. This can depend on site location. In the Manchester office where i am based there are monthly socials, lunch clubs, five a side teams and many other activities. There are also online events such as book clubs and discussion groups to get involved with that are cross site.

Yes

The government economic service apprenticeship has been a deeply rewarding experience for me. As a mature student who hadn't been in a educational setting for over 10 years i was provided with all the support i needed to be able to make a success of the apprenticeship in both the training and the work place.

Prepare well for the interview, be enthusiastic and do some research and have answers prepared for questions such as why this might be the programme for you. Brush up on your maths skills. I'm not great at maths and needed to do extra work to catch up. Enjoy the experience!