Senior Executive Officer Review
at Department for Education
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Project Management
Bristol
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.9 /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!
4.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.8/5
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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 currently manage the Reservist Programme within the department, ensuring that we have the right capabilities and strategic planning in place to respond effectively to major incidents in education establishments. I lead on designing and delivering recruitment campaigns to maintain the optimal size and structure of the reservist cell. I also lead the planning and delivery of induction, training, and exercise sessions for reservists to ensure they are fully prepared for deployment.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoyed the programme and connecting with other people in the cohort outside of my department as well as internally.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Coaching in the workplace has taught me the value of active listening, asking powerful questions, and creating space for others to discover their own solutions - for my immediate team and for the reservists I lead. It’s deepened my ability to support growth in others while fostering a culture of trust and continuous learning.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Structured well. I enjoyed the workshops and learning days.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My managers have been supportive. I was always supported in my study leave days and time for exams.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I was able to email them or set up a call if I needed extra help with assignments.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The coaching qualification has improved my communication and leadership abilities, enabling me to connect more effectively with others, manage team my team with empathy, and approach challenges with a strategic mindset. It has also deepened my personal growth and boosted my confidence in decision-making roles.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
The coaching community
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Department for Education to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Good work/life balance and there are a wide variety of roles across the department.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Department for Education?
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear, structured, and specific examples of your skills and achievements.
