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Apply for the 2021 GCS Apprentice Scheme

The award-winning Government Communication Service (GCS) Apprenticeship is now open for applications. The scheme offers a brilliant opportunity to learn while you earn, and develop the skills needed to begin a career in communications.

The 18-month apprenticeship combines working in a communications team in government with academic study and working towards a level 4 PR and Communications apprenticeship. Placements are based around the country.

Getting a career in government communications

The GCS Apprenticeship aims to bring school leavers from diverse backgrounds and those considering a career change into GCS, to begin a lasting career in government communications.

Alex Aiken, Executive Director of Government Communication, recently commented:

“I’ve been consistently impressed by the achievements and commitment of our apprentices. They have proved hard working, willing to learn and highly capable. Many of our apprentices have gone on to great roles in government communication and that is because of the commitment and energy they bring to the civil service. The achievements of each intake of apprentices has encouraged us to invest in recruiting new cohorts, so providing a future benefit to others as well as personal achievement.”

GCS Apprentices work towards the Level 4 ‘PR and Communications Assistant’ apprenticeship. So far, since the scheme’s launch in 2016, there has been a 96% pass rate, with more than 60% of the 2020 cohort having achieved a Distinction in their end of scheme assessment.

GCS apprentice Kyra Crossley, who is currently working on the News Desk at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, recently commented:

“For anyone considering the GCS Apprenticeship as part of a career change, I’d definitely recommend applying. This apprenticeship has given me an amazing opportunity to not only earn a salary while learning, but also to work within the heart of government and do something I’m passionate about.”

Another GCS apprentice Amber Warne, who is currently placed in the Cabinet Office’s COVID-19 Communications Hub recently said:

“Through working in the COVID-19 Communications Hub, within just weeks I experienced remarkable developments both personally and professionally. Entering into the working world straight from school was daunting but I can’t emphasise enough how supportive my team and the GCS as a whole is.”

Jatin Nayi, Digital Apprentice at the Ministry of Justice, recently commented:

“I left secondary school uncertain about my future, feeling that university wasn’t the best fit for me, and this route stood out because I’ve always taken a more practical approach to learning. The GCS Apprenticeship has so far helped me to explore my passion for creative writing and digital content. I’m able to participate in many interesting projects, work towards a level 4 apprenticeship and earn a salary – nothing better than earning while learning!”

Eligibility

The apprenticeship is aimed at all levels, ages and academic backgrounds and is an 18-month scheme. To apply, you must have:

  • 5 GCSE at grades 4-9 (A*-C) or equivalent including English, with a minimum GCSE Maths grade 3.
  • The equivalent of 2 A levels achieved by September 2021

Candidates who do not have a degree in a communications-related topic can also apply.

If you have any questions, get in touch: gcsapprentice@jga-group.co.uk.

Apply

Apply now
To get more information about the GCS apprenticeship scheme, join our session on Thursday 6 May at 5:30 pm. Register via Eventbrite.

 

Channel website: https://gcs.civilservice.gov.uk/

Original article link: https://gcs.civilservice.gov.uk/news/apply-for-the-2021-gcs-apprentice-scheme/

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