1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I work in Growth Accounting within the Productivity, Investment and Research Division, working on the Multifactor Productivity and Labour Cost/Labour Income publications. This involves processing raw [input] data via reproducible analytical pipelines and Excel spreadsheets to create [output] data ready for publication on the ONS website.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

My Excel skills have improved enormously and I have taken advantage of the ONS' wide range of learning opportunities to do, amongst others, courses on Python, R, National Accounts. I've also created and presented many slideshows.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I love it! The opportunity to study while you work (and vice versa!) is brilliant and really helps embed your learning - the chance to work day in-day out with some really intelligent and amazing people is fantastic and you pick up a lot of good tips and knowledge.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I think it works really well. My line manager is always keen to ensure I get my time to study and that work is not too stressful. I think the online delivery of lectures is well organized and lecturers are always available to support me.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

100%! My line managers have all been very supportive and the network of economists within the ONS are readily available to answer any questions. There is a very strong focus on well-being at the ONS which makes me feel valued and supported.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Lecturers are always available to help with anything academic and the apprenticeship advisor team are always quick to respond to any adminisitrative queries.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Whilst the content of the material being studied of course doesn't always marry up with my work role, I think the skills I've developed across the entirety of the modules studied thus far have enabled me to react better to learning new work-based skills.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are extra-curricular activities at the ONS but working mainly from home (and having three children!) it's not something I take advantage of. I have attended several networking events during office hours which have all been well organized.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Office for National Statistics to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I love the working environment! You're constantly surrounded by really intelligent people who will always make time for you no matter what grade they are. I feel really supported and encouraged to learn new skills and be the best I can be.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Office for National Statistics?

Go for it! It's a fantastic place to work!

Apprentice Economist - EO Review

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