Apprentice Economist Review

I work in a team and individually to deliver analysis and policy options for different areas of Local Government Funding. I have performed literature reviews of economic papers to help determine whether there is economic and actual rationale to change the way we consider costs of running a local council. I report my work in meetings and in boards to senior colleagues.

I have learnt how to effectively use Excel and R Studio to perform data and economic analysis. I have developed my presentation skills by attending training sessions and practicing presenting my work. I am encouraged to undertake development opportunities (Seminars, Workshops, Online Lessons...) to improve the quality of my work and to improve my employability skills

It is different to what I thought I was going to be doing after finishing A Levels, definitely a different experience to going to university! Now I have adjusted to working and studying, I really enjoy my apprenticeship, and have met many great people through both studying and working.

I find the structure of working four days a week, and then studying on the Friday very effective as I have allocated times to concentrate the different aspects of the apprenticeship.

My manager and senior colleagues have been extremely supportive in my introduction to a corporate environment. I have felt very welcomed to my team which has made my work much more enjoyable. My manager is interested and considerate of the time I take to complete my university work and is always willing to make adjustments to my work to suit the modules I'm studying, and during exam periods, she is always happy to adjust my workload.

I have an advisor I can ask any logistical questions to which is very helpful. My lecturers are very attentive to any questions or support we might need. We have weekly webinars when we can ask the lecturers anything regarding the academic content. The modules tie in well with our work as economists which means we get to apply what we learn to our work.

My statistics module has been very helpful in my role as I do a lot of analysis. The theory-based modules are also helpful in understanding the rationale of different policies we work on. We are taught how to write in an academic and corporate context which helps when summarising work.

We regularly meet up as a team, on team days and lunches and after work- which is lovely! There are junior economist societies and events, and a women in economics group which hosts networking events and academic seminars. There are lots of sports teams to get involved with in the office, and there is a social committee which organise fun evening events for apprentices.

Yes

It is a super friendly work environment, which focusses on development opportunities you can undertake to improve your skill set. This is perfect for an apprentice who is early in their career or looking to further develop their technical or professional skills. You can see the impact your work has on government policy which is very rewarding.

Be yourself and show why you are interested in the job/ apprenticeship. Don't worry if you don't have all the skills, they are looking for your ability and willingness to learn!