This week is National Apprenticeship Week, an opportunity for the UK apprenticeship community to celebrate the benefits of apprenticeships for individuals, employers and the economy.
In recent years, the award-winning Government Communication Service Apprenticeship programme has led the way, providing a valuable platform for school-leavers and career-changers to develop the knowledge, skills and experience to begin an exciting career in government communications.
To mark this special week, current and former GSC apprentices in departments across government reflect on their experiences and career journeys to date.
Maya Harnett – GCS apprentice, HM Revenue & Customs
The GCS has provided me with the opportunity to earn while I learn. I am gaining valuable work experience while still training. It is a win-win situation.
Jared Blake – former GCS apprentice, now Event Programme and Communications Officer at the Department for International Trade
The GCS Apprenticeship scheme introduced a host of opportunities to build a career at the heart of government. Now, I work on ministerial and world events – an experience I would not have gained anywhere else.
Lauren Brown – GCS apprentice, Home Office
The GCS Apprenticeship programme provided an alternative to mainstream education. Now, I have a fantastic job and support along the way, while training for my qualification.
Charles Odunuga – GCS apprentice, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
With over 10 years working in various professions, I had always craved a career in communications. The GCS Apprenticeship programme offered me the opportunity to make that career change.
Sophie Jackson – GCS apprentice, HM Revenue & Customs
I always dreaded the thought of university; the cost and lifestyle was not for me. I tried endlessly to find an apprenticeship that would suit me and still provide me with the necessary workplace skills. The GCS apprenticeship programme met all my requirements. The scheme will help me get a Level 4 qualification, and offers the opportunity to network with industry experts, earning money along the way.
Harry Grossman – former GCS apprentice, now Campaign Ambassador at the Department for International Trade
The GCS Apprenticeship has allowed me to start up my career in a positive and uplifting environment where I have had great experiences and developed new skills.
The GCS Apprenticeship scheme is now accepting applications for the 2020 programme. To find out more and apply, visit: https://gcs.civilservice.gov.uk/careers/apprenticeships/.