Admin assistant apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role from an entry position
applying directly
College
You could complete a college course on a related topic, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant subjects include a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Business and Administration.
You'll usually need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course, or 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) for a Level 3 course.
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through a Level 2 (Intermediate) apprenticeship in business administration, or a business administrator Level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship.
You'll usually need some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for a Level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeship or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, for a Level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship.
Work
You might be able to start on a temporary contract through a recruitment agency. Sometimes this can lead to a permanent job. Qualifications in business administration may also help.
You could also volunteer with a charity in an office based role to get some experience and skills that are useful for administration work.Direct Application
You could apply directly to become an admin assistant.
Employers may expect you to have:
GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent qualifications, including English and maths. Telephone manner, typing or IT skills are also beneficial in securing an admin assistant role. Additionally, time management and the ability to prioritise tasks is really important in administration. This could be tested at interview. For example, you might be given some tasks to complete and asked to arrange them in order of importance.
Admin assistant apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- administration skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to work on your own
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be flexible and open to change
- excellent verbal communication skills
- customer service skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Admin assistant apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- deal with queries on the phone, by email and on social media
- greet visitors at reception
- type letters, reports and other business documents
- update computer records
- print and photocopy items
- order office supplies
- set up meetings and take notes during them
- make travel arrangements for staff
Working environment
You could work in an office.
Career path and progression - Admin assistant apprenticeships
With experience, you could progress from admin assistant to supervisor or office manager. You could also move into other departments, like IT, payroll or accounting.
With further training, you could specialise in an area like legal, financial or medical administration.