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Higherin
HMRC

Criminal Investigator Review

at HMRC

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Leeds

Review Submitted: May 2025

Overall Rating

4.1 /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 - Overview of Role
4/5 - Skills Development
3.8/5 - 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
As a Criminal Investigator, I investigate potential fraudulent activity against HMRC, covering many types of tax. This includes analysing financial material, conducting interviews, and applying for court orders.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I found the apprenticeship challenging at times as there is a lot to learn and it can be quite intense, but it was a positive experience overall which allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Everything was a new skill as I came from a social care and finance background. The whole apprenticeship was a huge learning curve for me.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
I was one of the first apprentice to complete the programme so there were some teething problems. However, these were addressed as the programme progressed and I can see the improvements made for current and future apprentices.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I was allowed time for the required Off The Job hours and End Point Assessment preparation. My Line Manager and direct management chain were very supportive through the whole process.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider is my employer so as sbove.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel that my qualification has been extremely helpful as it was a guided learning process but still allowed me to learn on the job. I was brand new to this industry so it was nice to know I would receive a recognised qualification whilst being able to immediately put it into practice.
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
Yes but I only attend small social activities with my immediate team. I occasionally attend professional networking events if they are relevant to my role.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend HMRC to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There are lots of benefits to working in HMRC/wider Civil Service, including flexible working and the pension. Completing an apprenticeship whilst being paid full salary is a huge benefit that not many employers offer and often isn't available to adult learners. Also, there is a huge scope for career progression/diversifying.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to HMRC?
Read the recruitment pack thoroughly and read the guidance on Civil Service applications and behaviours. understanding the STAR method is the biggest challenge,
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