About the programme
Advance Apprenticeship is an 18-month programme that combines hands-on work across Government Communications teams with academic study. You will work towards a Level 4 Public Relations (PR) and Communications apprenticeship standard, developed by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Since launching in 2016, the programme has placed 271 apprentices in communications teams across government. It has won six awards, including Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year in 2019 and Apprentice Employer of the Year in 2021, 2023 and 2024.
Programme details:
- Duration: 18 months
- Apprenticeship level: Level 4 PR and Communications
- Entry grade: Administrative Officer
- Salary: £21,000 to £28,096 (depending on location and department)
- Location: National, with remote working supported in line with departmental guidelines
- Recruitment: Short application form, CV assessment, 500-word personal statement and video interview
Who can apply
Government communications aims to be representative of the audiences it serves and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences, including recent school and college leavers, career changers and people with caring responsibilities.
We are looking for people to have:
- An interest in current affairs and how the government communicates with the public
- Familiarity of digital platforms, social media, AI tools, and applications such as Microsoft Office, with the ability to adapt to new tools and systems
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
To apply, you must have:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 (A* to C) or equivalent, including English and Maths
- 2 A levels (or equivalent) achieved before your apprenticeship starts
You must also:
- Be aged 16 or over and not be in full-time education when you start your apprenticeship
- Not already hold a Level 4 or above degree or qualification in any communications-related field
- Have the right to live and work in the United Kingdom
- Have lived in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the last 3 years before starting
- Not be undertaking another apprenticeship at the same time
Some placements may require British citizenship and additional security clearance. Your start date will depend on the completion of security checks.
What to expect
You will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to work in government communications, supported by your line manager, our training provider, mentors, and the Government Communication Service (GCS) People and Membership team.
During your apprenticeship you could find yourself:
- Developing communication plans across digital, social and traditional media channels
- Working on government campaigns that build public trust and reach millions of people
- Using data and insight to understand and reach different audiences
- Collaborating with colleagues across government using AI and digital tools
- Organising events and stakeholder visits across the UK and abroad
Towards the end of the programme, you will complete an end point Assessment (EPA). This includes a written report on a workplace project, a presentation with questioning, and professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence.
Apprentices who complete the programme are eligible to apply for membership of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA).
Tips for applying
- Describe your own actions and impact – use ‘I’ rather than ‘we’
- Read the job description several times, especially the eligibility and essential criteria
- Link your experience and skills directly to the job advert
- Check that your application covers all the requirements
- Keep all information current and up to date
- Ask someone to read through your application before you submit
What our apprentices say
Sophie Jack, apprentice at the Pension Protection Fund: ‘From the moment I joined, I felt very welcomed and inspired by the colleagues around me.’ Read Sophie’s blog.
George Neophytou, who joined after seven years in retail: ‘I used to think apprenticeships were only for 18-year-olds leaving school. A friend recommended the programme – her recommendation was spot on.’ Read George’s blog.
Ellen Holmes, apprentice at His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC): ‘When I joined in November 2024, I had no idea just how transformative the experience would be.’ Read Ellen’s blog.
Contact us
For queries about the application process, contact gcs-apprenticeship@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.