The deadline for applications to the UK’s first degree-level apprenticeship in economics, provided by the University’s School of Economics, is 20 January.
The partnership between the University and the Government Economic Service (GES) will see Kent’s School of Economics deliver the apprenticeship in conjunction with its Centre for Higher and Degree Apprenticeships.
The Government Economic Service Degree Level Apprenticeship programme will create new routes to careers in the Civil Service for young people who would prefer to study for a degree whilst working at the heart of government.
The apprenticeship standard on which the programme is based was developed by a group of economist employers. These included HM Treasury and the Bank of England as well as a range of consultancies and third sector organisations.
A range of central government departments and agencies will provide placements through the new programme, including: HM Treasury, Department for Work and Pensions, Department for Education and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.
The apprenticeship is available in locations across the UK: Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Sheffield, Newcastle, London and York. Apprentices will receive a starting salary of about £22k in London and in excess of £20k nationally.
The apprenticeship is fully funded therefore there are no tuition fees, and apprentices are guaranteed that 20% of work time will be spent on university-based education, which will be closely related to the job.
The programme is open to candidates with GCSE maths at grade B (6) or above and 96 UCAS points – equivalent to CCC at A-level, MMM for a BTEC Diploma, DD for a BTEC Certificate.
There are no age limitations, and enthusiastic applicants with other relevant qualifications or previous experience are welcomed. Once the apprenticeship has been successfully completed, apprentices will have four years work experience, an economics degree and the offer of a permanent job in the Government Economic Service.
Original article by Martin Herrema, University of Kent News Centre