Local government revenues officer apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university course
a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like public administration or business administration, although it's not essential.
You'll usually need:
1 or 2 A-Levels, or the equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. You'll need 2 to 3 A-Levels, or the equivalent, for a degree.
College
You could do a college course, 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. You might also need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a Level 3 course.
Apprenticeship
You can get into this job through a revenue and welfare benefits practitioner higher apprenticeship.
This typically takes around 12 months to complete and is a mix of workplace learning and study.
You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A-Levels, or the equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Work
You could start as an administrative assistant and work your way up with training on the job. For example, by taking courses offered by the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. Employers will normally expect you to have 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths
experience in customer service, especially in accounts and finance, or in local government. Some employers may ask you to sit assessment tests to check that you have the skills needed for the job.
Other Routes
If you are a graduate, you can apply for a place on the Local Government Association National Graduate Development Programme.
Local government revenues officer 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
- business management skills
- 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 confidently
Local government revenues officer apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day tasks you could:
- calculate rents, council tax and business rates
- send out bills and reminders
- collect and process payments
- recover rent and council tax arrears
- arrange legal action against debtors
- get money back from customers who have been overpaid
- attend court
Working environment
You could work in an office.
Career path and progression - Local government revenues officer apprenticeships
With experience and qualifications you could progress into senior roles, including fraud investigations, property valuation or management.