Invoice and Assurance Support Officer Review
at Department for Education
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Business Operations, Finance
Manchester
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
5 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
5/5
-
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
In my role as an Invoice and Assurance Support Officer, I am responsible for ensuring that all financial transactions, particularly supplier invoices, are processed accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with organisational policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs). My work supports financial transparency, Value for Money (VfM), and the proper stewardship of public funds.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoyed my Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship because it provided an excellent foundation for me to transition from a healthcare background into an office-based environment. The programme gave me a strong understanding of organisational structures, policies, business fundamentals, and project management principles.
The apprenticeship’s structure, 80% practical work and 20% off‑the‑job training, has been especially valuable. It enabled me to apply what I learned across different modules directly into my daily work, and also giving me time to study for my EPA.
The apprenticeship’s structure, 80% practical work and 20% off‑the‑job training, has been especially valuable. It enabled me to apply what I learned across different modules directly into my daily work, and also giving me time to study for my EPA.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive excellent support from my training provider, Ginger Nut, throughout my qualification. They guide me through the preparation for my EPA, ensuring that all coursework is completed to a high standard and fully ready for assessment. They also have internal auditors who review the quality of my work, providing detailed feedback to help me improve.
Ginger Nut also conducts mock EPA assessments, which has really helped me understand what to expect and feel more confident. If they notice that my off‑the‑job training entries are not sufficient, they let me know straight away and support me in getting back on track.
Overall, the level of support has been consistently excellent.
Ginger Nut also conducts mock EPA assessments, which has really helped me understand what to expect and feel more confident. If they notice that my off‑the‑job training entries are not sufficient, they let me know straight away and support me in getting back on track.
Overall, the level of support has been consistently excellent.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
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
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Department for Education to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a workplace where you can genuinely realise your potential and grow in a positive environment. From my very first day, my manager reassured me that no question is a stupid question, which made me feel comfortable, confident, and supported straight away.
The culture is inclusive, welcoming, and highly supportive. Colleagues are kind, approachable, and always willing to offer help or guidance whenever needed. It’s a place where you are encouraged to learn, ask questions, and develop both personally and professionally.
The culture is inclusive, welcoming, and highly supportive. Colleagues are kind, approachable, and always willing to offer help or guidance whenever needed. It’s a place where you are encouraged to learn, ask questions, and develop both personally and professionally.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Department for Education?
Use the STAR method when answering application and interview questions. This approach is also used in apprenticeship EPA assessments, so becoming confident with STAR will help you both in the application process and throughout your training.
