Economist Review

I am an economist apprentice, studying a degree in economics whilst working in the DWP as an economist. I regularly work on large data analysis projects, manipulating data to provide insight to help answer key departmental questions. I have also worked in modelling and forecasting benefit workloads and expenditure, which feeds into budgets and submissions.

During my time on the economist degree apprenticeship program, I have developed countless skills I previously did not possess. Data appraisal, manipulation and analysis are chief among these, as the majority of my work based tasks involve using these skills. I have also developed wider soft skills such as time management and leadership.

I thoroughly enjoy the program. The balance between work and study prevents either from becoming stale, and serve as respites from each other. I find economics interesting, particularly as practising these skills in a work setting helps to contextualise our learning. I really enjoy the fact that both sides of the apprenticeship complement each other.

I began the program as the first cohort of apprentices, and as such there were several kinks and issues initially. However, our feedback was listened to and acted upon at all times. As a result I now believe the apprenticeship is well organised, and runs really well as a result.

My employer is massively supportive of my apprenticeship, which I massively appreciate. There has never been any issue in me taking my allotted study time, even when it results in me taking large stretches of 3 days working weeks. I always feel appreciated as an apprentice by those higher in the organisation.

I receive a good amount of support from my training provider. What I appreciate is that for the most part I am not forced into engaging with wider support. As someone who feels like they do not require enhanced support when working through my apprenticeship, I appreciate that it is there but only if wanted.

I feel like my qualification helps with some aspects of my role, but only certain modules of my degree. For the most part, my role is more of a general analyst role rather than specifically that of an economist, and as such my degree is not always directly useful in the workplace,

In our workplace we are strongly encouraged to get involved in schemes and volunteering outside of our usual work roles. This is only voluntary however, and so we are under no pressure to do so if we don't want to. There are also sporting opportunities through HASSRA if we wish to engage in that.

Yes

I would recommend the DWP as a really inclusive, welcoming place to work as an economist. Even as an apprentice I always feel valued by not just colleagues but by those in leadership positions. The only downside to working for the DWP is that I believe we are lower paid than colleagues in other Government departments in similar roles.

I would strongly advise applying to the DWP, particularly as a apprentice. The workplace is very welcoming and understanding of apprenticeship programs, and provide extensive support. The DWP is a great place to develop skills and further your career, and even if you do not envisage you spending your whole career there it is a great stepping stone.