Funding and Data Officer Review
at Lancashire County Council
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Government
Preston
Review Submitted: April 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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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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
I am responsible for managing all the funding and data aspects of apprenticeship funding and apprenticeship levy. This entails overseeing, monitoring and developing all funding and data systems, including the performance management of external training providers. I analyse data collected from internal and external sources, highlight and report any apprentice or funding risk in particular relation to the apprenticeship levy or issues with compliance to the D of E Apprenticeship Funding Rules.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The data apprenticeship was very relevant to my job role and was just the right length to keep me motivated throughout the programme. I had regular contact with my training provider throughout my apprenticeship and was fully supported by my employer. I had a dedicated day to complete my off the job hours and received additional time in working hours so that I could prepare for my EPA in which I received a Distinction.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
The programme provided me with skills, knowledge and behaviours that enabled me to develop my data skills, provide PowerBi dashboards so that the organisation can make data driven decisions. It challenged me and gave me more confidence in my role.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
We had monthly group session with the training provider which where completed online with other apprentices, including some that were external to LCC. We were given clear goals and monthly objectives which ensured that we were ready for EPA on time.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My line manager attended all my 3 monthly formal reviews and fully supported me in agreeing a dedicated protected day to complete my off the job hours and was involved in supporting my project that I needed to complete for my EPA.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
My coach fully supported me throughout my apprenticeship including being available for additional 121 sessions if I asked for help. Clear guidance was provide and a comprehensive suite of resources were made available.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I am much more confident with data and have learnt new skills in excel and gained the skill of being able to create PowerBi dashboards.
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
There were 15 other employees from my organisation completing the apprenticeship at the same time as myself. We created a Teams group which we used for chat purposes and sharing information. The group was really useful to share ideas, help colleagues and sometimes provide moral support to colleagues who were struggling in a particular area. These colleagues came from a wide variety of services across a council with 12,000 employees and has helped with service to service networking.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Lancashire County Council to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I joined Lancashire County Council at aged 53 and then completed the apprenticeship as an upskill. I feel that I am fully supported in my job role, and they care about my wellbeing. By supporting me throughout my apprenticeship I have learnt new skills, and developed my knowledge in an area that I have only been working in for 8 years. The apprenticeship was challenging but it has increased my confidence in my job role and provided me with greater job satisfaction.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Lancashire County Council?
If you want a role that will challenges you whilst being supported through training/apprenticeship then Lancashire County Council may just be the employer for you. My tips and advice would be - when applying - read the job specification and provide answers to all the areas they are looking for, and don't think that apprenticeships are just for young people, I completed mine in my fifties.
