HR Policy Advisor Review
at HMRC
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Human Resources
Nottingham
Review Submitted: May 2025
Overall Rating
4.7 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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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:
5/5
As a HR Policy Advisor I possess a strong working knowledge of HR policies and employment legislation. I handle complex queries across HMRC’s employment framework and pay and reward policies, serving as an escalation point for intricate policy-related questions. Working closely with Policy Leads and Senior Leadership Team, I review policies and align them with strategic priorities, contributing to enhanced capability across policy areas.
I maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including HR Other, HR Business Partners, Expert Advice Services, Unity Business Services, Private Office, and external partners. I also engage with external bodies, such as the Government Legal Department, Other Government Departments, and the Government People Group, to integrate best practices and manage employment risks.
I maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including HR Other, HR Business Partners, Expert Advice Services, Unity Business Services, Private Office, and external partners. I also engage with external bodies, such as the Government Legal Department, Other Government Departments, and the Government People Group, to integrate best practices and manage employment risks.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my program immensely. It has significantly shaped my career by enhancing my communication and people skills, and deepening my understanding of stakeholder needs. One of the most impactful aspects was the group discussions with apprentices from private companies. These discussions were transformational, broadening my perspective on HR practices. Additionally, the CIPD platform has connected me to a vibrant community of like-minded professionals.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
My strong planning and organizational skills enable me to manage competing priorities effectively. My expertise in HR policy, recruitment strategies, and process improvement will enable me to contribute significantly. My qualification has enhanced my ability to provide expert advice on complex HR queries, ensuring compliance with Civil Service Recruitment Principles and employment legislation.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My program was very well-organized and structured. It offers a clear roadmap for developing essential skills, with a balanced mix of theoretical learning and practical application. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cover key areas comprehensively, and the support from mentors and peers is excellent. Regular assessments and feedback ensure continuous improvement, making the learning experience both effective and enjoyable.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a great deal of support from my employer. They provide access to resources, mentorship, and regular feedback, which helps me stay on track and continuously improve. The encouragement and guidance from my Manager and colleagues create a positive and motivating environment, making it easier to tackle challenges and achieve my goals.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
While I do receive support from my training provider, I also wish there were more interactive sessions. These could have greatly enhanced my learning experience and benefited my journey towards achieving my qualifications. More engagement and hands-on activities would have made the process even more effective and enjoyable. However, Regular check-ins and feedback with tutor ensured I stay on track.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My qualification through my training provider has been quite beneficial in enhancing my performance at work. The structured learning and practical applications have equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle my responsibilities more effectively. However, I believe that additional interactive sessions could have further enriched my learning experience, making me even more proficient in my role. Overall, the qualification has been a valuable asset in my professional development.
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
Yes, there are several extra-curricular activities available at my workplace. We have various social activities, including team-building events and after-work gatherings. We have professional networking events that provide great opportunities to connect with colleagues and professionals. These activities not only enhance our work-life balance but also help in building stronger relationships within the team.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend HMRC to a friend?
Yes
Why?
HMRC offers a supportive and inclusive work culture where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills. It values work-life balance, providing flexible working hours and various leave options to ensure employees can manage their personal and professional lives effectively. With a wide range of roles and departments, there are plenty of opportunities to explore different career paths within the organization. Three of my friends have managed to secure position in HMRC and I feel everyday proud of being a part of such organisation and making a positive impact.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to HMRC?
Applying to HMRC can be a great career move! Here are some tips: Understand the role and its requirements thoroughly. Customize your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description, being specific about how your background makes you a good fit for the role. When writing your personal statement, read the personal specification and essential criteria carefully, ensuring your statement covers all the points mentioned. During the interview, use the Civil Service Success Profiles and follow the STARE method (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Evaluation) when discussing your behaviours, using examples from your past experience. The application process can be competitive, so stay positive and persistent. Even if you don't get the job on your first try, use the experience to improve and keep applying. Best of luck with your application!
