Government Social Research Apprentice Review
at Government Social Research
Degree Apprenticeship
Research
Birmingham
Review Submitted: April 2025
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
I work Mon-Thurs with Friday as a university study day. I work within the analysis function to carry out research according to the need of my department. This involves managing research projects with external contractors and working on in-house research projects. We provide evidence to support policy teams in decision-making.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The programme is enjoyable as we have regular face to face study days in London as part of our degree along with an annual residential in Kent. Additionally there are plenty of socials whether work-based or study/apprentice-based throughout the year.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes I have developed my analytical skills in report writing, working with literature and industry knowledge as well as soft skills such working collaboratively and organisation.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
As my cohort is the first to do this programme, there have been some snags however these have been worked out well by the university and employers. In general, there is good communication between the university, our managers and ourselves.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I believe this varies depending on your work area. I find in government, there are plenty of learning resources and encouragement for training. We have the opportunity to internally rotate after 1-2 years to maximise our experience at work.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
On Fridays, we have a regular catch-up call with our university lecturer to discuss our learning for that week. It is important to take responsibility for your own learning and keep up to date with modules and assignment deadlines.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I have found that so far, uni work complements my day job very well and I can implement what I learn directly at work.
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
Regular team socials, volunteering days, away days such as the GSR away day.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Government Social Research to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The civil service is a great place to grow your learning due to the wide range of learning resources you will have access to. The analytical functions vary in size across departments, however there are always plenty of areas to gain a wide range of experience from. Additionally, the flexibility and work culture is a positive.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Government Social Research?
Ensure your organisation skills are up to scratch as working and studying at the same time is sometimes tough!
