This morning I was pleased to host the second in a line of Virtual Job & Apprenticeship Fairs with todays event focussing on opportunities within the Civil Service and the Department of Work and Pensions in particular.

We were joined by Craig Bentley, Apprenticeship Communications and Engagement Manager, at the Department of Work and Pensions who, in a very helpful presentation, was able to dispel many of the misconceptions that can be held regarding apprenticeships. In particular, Craig outlined that apprenticeships are suitable for applicants at a variety of ages, not just school leavers, highlighting that the average of apprentices at the Department of Work and Pensions is 30 with one apprentice aged 69.

There can often be a sense that apprentices will earn less than their colleagues, Craig outlined that in the Department of Work and Pensions, apprentices always earn the same rate as non-apprentices employed at the equivalent grade. However, apprentices would benefit from structured training towards formalised qualifications enhancing career and personal development opportunities.

Attendees had queried eligibility requirements for apprenticeships and Craig was able to provide assurance to those that may not already hold the required qualifications that they can be evidenced during the apprenticeship programme itself. Attendees were also assured of opportunities to work flexibly when conducting apprenticeships with the potential to request part-time working if required.

Finally, at the conclusion of the presentation, attendees were guided through the job application process for Civil Service Jobs and provided advice on how to prepare a high-quality application for available roles as well as interview tips.

I hope that this morning’s attendees found the meeting helpful. I have attached a copy of the presentation to this article, which can be found towards the end of this page. I wish all applicants well in any job applications.

I am very grateful for the support that both Craig and Lorna Franklyn from the Romford Job Centre provided in arranging this event. In the New Year, my team and I will plan further Virtual Job and Apprenticeship Fairs so please do check my website for further updates.