Apprentice economist Review
at Government Economic Service
Degree Apprenticeship
Data Analysis, Government
London
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
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
My role involves supporting the wider analysis team to: develop business cases, produce economic modelling (e.g. cost benefit analysis), compile literature reviews and data sources, use coding software, and produce analytical products that support the work of policy colleagues.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
The GES degree apprenticeship scheme is a great way to combine theoretical and practical learning. I enjoy being surrounded day-to-day by experienced colleagues and understanding how economic theory applies within a real world setting to shape and influence policy making. The university side of the scheme can be very demanding at times, but on the whole, working and studying complement each other well.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have been able to learn a range of analytical skills, including coding, use of specialist software and new data visualisation techniques, and build economic appraisal skills. The scheme has also enhanced my communication and presentation skills as well as my problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
There is a good balance between working and studying, with day release each week to dedicate to university. University modules follow a similar structure and style, but sometimes communication and coordination around exams is lacking.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My employer is very supportive, offering extra flexibility for studying if needed (e.g. extra study days per semester) and encouraging participation in wider events that supplement the course.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Each apprentice has an 'apprenticeship advisor' who checks in every 6 weeks or so through formal meetings, but can also be contacted at any time between those. There are also multiple student support teams at the university if needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
It provides the base knowledge and guiding principles, which helps to understand key concepts, but there is limited application to the real world. The work environment definitely provides greater context and insight into how the principles are applied.
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
There are frequent opportunities to attend training courses and away days, as well social activities to get to know colleagues better and build connections.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Government Economic Service to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It provides a great balance of working and studying and opens up a range of opportunities. You can continue learning and building subject expertise through the university course, whilst seeing how it translates into the real world and influences key decision making at work. You also gain an understanding of the workplace environment and develop key transferable skills, that have benefits beyond the scheme.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Government Economic Service?
Demonstrating flexibility and being able to prioritise is especially important in the public sector given the high stakes nature of work and changing steers.
