Finance Apprenticeships and the Government Finance Function

We’re the Government Finance Function, and we’re here to make sure public money is spent wisely. How? By working in teams throughout the government and the UK, to put finance at the heart of decision making. Think of us as a community with 10,000+ finance colleagues working together to improve the lives of people across the country, that’s quite something. And it’s why we say: there’s strength in numbers.

Working in over 400 government organisations, funding critical projects and helping the UK to thrive, we offer supported career paths for our people. We employ and train finance professionals in a wide variety of exciting roles ranging from accountancy to risk management, and we employ applicants at all stages of their careers, including those just beginning their journey or seasoned finance professionals looking to try something new.

Meet some of our fantastic finance apprentices

What do you enjoy most about your Government Finance Function apprenticeship?

Sam: What I enjoy most about my apprenticeship at UKRI’s Science and Technology Facilities Council is working closely with scientists on exciting projects. I feel very involved in the innovative process through preparing budgets, attending finance meetings, and analysing financial reports to ensure value for money.

Mea: I really enjoy the fact that I am able to work and study, whilst being fully supported by the rest of my finance team.

Dan: I work as a Finance Business Partner in HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), specifically partnering the department’s Fraud Investigation Service. I really appreciate that my placement has given me exposure to colleagues and senior leaders throughout the business, whilst allowing me to take on plenty of key tasks and responsibilities from day one.

Libby: Since starting my apprenticeship, I have noticed the opportunities for growth and learning within my role, helping me develop personal and professional skills alongside earning a wage. There is a good balance of independent learning and tutoring sessions, and support whenever you need it. It has offered me hands on experience being able to apply knowledge from my learning to tasks I complete in the workplace daily.

Why did you choose to undertake a finance apprenticeship?

Sam: My main motivator was the opportunity to gain vital experience in the finance sector while being supported in my ACCA studies. As part of my apprenticeship, 20% of my hours are spent studying, allowing me to allocate more time to my studies and not be too overwhelmed by work.

Mea: I have always known that I wanted to work in finance, but I didn’t want to study it at university. So, I decided to do an apprenticeship to gain a qualification and valuable experience whilst working.

Dan: I was looking for a role that gave me a lot of stretching work, plenty of variety, and time to continue my studies towards my CIMA exams. The HMRC Finance Graduate Apprenticeship ticked all those boxes. My scheme gives me 4 rotations across 4 years, so I get to experience many different aspects of finance. Having 20% of my working time for training and development gives me a great balance.

Libby: After completing my A-Levels I didn’t feel university was best suited for me, I just wanted to get into the workplace. After taking on my current role, I felt it would be good to gain a further understanding into the background of finance to help me better comprehend my daily duties. An apprenticeship offers practical work experience while working towards a professional qualification.

Tell us about a memorable event or project that you’ve worked on?

Sam: My team are currently preparing the budgets for the Vulcan 20-20 project, which aims to build the world’s most powerful laser. This should enable scientists in many fields of research gain a better understanding of their work, such as observing solar flares, plasma physics research and exploring the potential of laser fusion as a renewable energy source.

Mea: In my organisation, we switched from a manual PO process to a new system called IPROC. I have a key role in ensuring both internal and external stakeholders are following procedures to ensure its smooth and seamless operation which in turn develops my skills and knowledge further.

Libby: I think the most memorable event since being at the Treasury would be attending an awards ceremony at No.11. Visiting Downing Street is something I never thought I’d have the opportunity to do, it was a surreal moment.

What would you say to someone considering applying for a GFF apprenticeship?

Sam: I would highly recommend a GFF apprenticeship for the breadth of opportunities that exist when working for the government. There is a huge variety in the work we do, meaning that there is something out there for everyone.

Mea: It’s an amazing opportunity for growth as you will be fully supported throughout the apprenticeship, both in your work and study. You will also gain insight into how public finance works.

Dan: I would highly recommend applying for a GFF apprenticeship. Having worked in other industries, I can safely say the roles offered here are amongst the best when compared to others on the market. They’re really well structured and you have a huge amount of support and resources at your disposal.

Do you have any top tips or advice for someone who is about to embark on a finance apprenticeship?

Sam: Although it sounds cliché, “expect the unexpected” is a very appropriate piece of advice when approaching this role. I had expected that working in finance would involve sitting behind a desk all day staring at spreadsheets. Little did I know I would be working in a science laboratory playing a small role in pioneering scientific research which could benefit the planet for years to come.

Dan: Be curious, there’s no such thing as a stupid question! We sometimes forget that colleagues in finance were in our position once upon a time – and I’ve found during my time on the apprenticeship that everyone in the Civil Service is extremely helpful. And on that note, network – reach out to people not just in your area of work but to those in other areas, developing those relationships at an early stage really does benefit you in the long-term.

Libby: My advice would be to stay organised. It can be fast paced, so set time aside specifically for studying. I have found my planner has helped me stay accountable and is useful to know what I am working towards with deadlines to do exams. Make use of those around you, don’t be afraid to ask questions to your tutor or line manager.

Want to get involved?

Visit our website to find out more about the opportunities available across the Government Finance Function: www.financecareers.civilservice.gov.uk.