Civil Service executive officer apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
applying directly
a graduate training scheme
University
You could apply to join the Civil Service after doing a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree, although a university qualification is not essential.
Most subjects are accepted but public administration may offer a good general introduction to this area of work.
You'll usually need 1 or 2 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. 2 to 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
Apprenticeship
You could do a Civil Service higher or degree apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship qualification you work towards will depend on the role and business area you work in.
You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A-Levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Work
You could start as an administrative officer. After gaining experience, you could apply for a post as an executive officer when vacancies become available.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. You'll be expected to have relevant work or life experience to do this.
You'll be assessed on your skills, knowledge and behaviours that fit in with the values of the Civil Service, as part of the application process.
Other Routes
If you're a graduate or in your final year of university, you can apply for a place on the Fast Stream scheme. Competition for places is very strong, so a degree with a higher grade and work experience will help you.
Your degree can be in any subject, though some Civil Service departments may prefer a degree in a subject that is relevant to their work, for example science and engineering.
Civil Service executive officer apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- administration skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- business management skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
pass enhanced background checksmeet the Civil Service nationality requirements
Civil Service executive officer apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
What you'll do will depend on your job role and the government department you work in. Typically, in your day to day tasks you could:
- manage a team
- train staff
- apply government plans to public services
- prepare and presenting reports
- analyse data
- communicate with the public
- give advice to government representatives
- manage a budget
- handle a caseload
update files
Working environment
You could work in an office.
Career path and progression - Civil Service executive officer apprenticeships
With experience, there’s often the opportunity to apply for jobs in different departments.
There is a clear promotion structure in the Civil Service. If you’re on the Fast Stream you can expect to reach senior level in around 5 years.