GES Apprentice Review
at Government Economic Service
Degree Apprenticeship
Data Analysis
Salford
Review Submitted: September 2024
Overall Rating
3.9 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.8/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
My current role is an analyst working in Trade Remedies. We assess various UK and international policies on trade protection measures. The work is a mix between assessing impacts of trade measures, analysis of potential policy options, and advising policy colleagues and providing analysis for ministerial decisions.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
It is not always clear between the link between learning on-the job and learning from the degree, as you cannot always control what you are working on. You need to learn how to apply what you learn in work to the degree and vice versa. Being able to build a network of fellow apprentices is very useful.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Lots of work is carried out on Excel, as well as some tasks in coding. You often have to learn presentation skills and being able to convey analysis and key takeaways to varying audiences. Being able to work autonomously is a key skill, alongside collaboration and time management.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The structure is very consistent, with set days as a study day, and flexibilty to add more as needed. There are regular catch ups with your advisor, an annual residential, and face to face teaching once per trimester. With calendars released in advance it is much easier to plan your work around the degree.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
Having a manager who understands the demands of the apprenticeship is key, and that can be hit and miss for some apprentices, however I have been fortunate. My line manager is very supportive and understands that the degree is a primary importance in my development.
Not all employers within the GES apply the same terms to apprentices. Some departments start at different job grades, with different rules on rotations and promotions. This has been the biggest frustration.
Not all employers within the GES apply the same terms to apprentices. Some departments start at different job grades, with different rules on rotations and promotions. This has been the biggest frustration.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
You have regular catch ups with an advisor, and you have full access to the university facilities while on campus at the residential week, as well as access to the staff and support networks
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
Understanding and applying theory you learn is the most useful aspect
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Students run their own social networks, and there is access to the university facilities
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Government Economic Service to a friend?
Yes
Why?
A very useful scheme for those both fresh from college and those looking to change careers
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Government Economic Service?
Work on your time management!
