Commercial Practitioner Review
at Department for Education
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Business Operations, Procurement, Project Management, Purchasing and Supply
Coventry
Review Submitted: March 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
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
4.4/5
-
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
I really enjoy working at the Department for Education. My role is rewarding and carries a meaningful level of responsibility for its grade. I am trusted by my managers and given the autonomy to deliver high‑impact work, which is motivating.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I’m pleased to have completed the apprenticeship programme. Balancing my day‑to‑day work with the apprenticeship was challenging at times, but I don't regretted taking it on.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Certainly. The additional support provided by the apprenticeship helped me to grow, and it opened doors for me at work by giving me exposure to areas I otherwise wouldn’t have experienced in my role.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme was well structured and well organised. It was sometimes difficult to balance alongside my day‑to‑day work, but colleagues across the Department were supportive during these periods.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I was never prevented from taking my 6 weekly hours of apprenticeship study time. I was also allowed to take study leave for examples. The apprenticeship was factored into my workload.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The training providers was very professional and supportive.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The training and learning I have undertaken have certainly improved my insight at work.
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, there are extra-curricular activities to get involved in at my work.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Department for Education to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The DfE is a great place to work. The people are just great, some of the best in the Civil Service. Its a very supportive environment.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Department for Education?
Prepare your interview STARS (Situation, Task, Actions, Results).
