Government Launches 750 Apprenticeships for Talented Young People

The government has nearly quadrupled the number of Civil Service apprenticeships for talented young people across the UK.

From 2 February, young people can apply for: 450 Civil Service Fast Track Apprenticeships, including 50 dedicated Cyber Security apprenticeships 300 new Operational Delivery Apprenticeships. In total the 750 places available is a significant increase on the 200 places available last year.

The 2015 apprenticeships offer a wider range of opportunities than ever before. Roles are available in departments across the country, ranging from the Department for Work and Pensions in Dundee to HM Revenue & Customs in Hastings.

Successful applicants will gain valuable work experience and a certified qualification, while being paid a competitive salary.

To apply, visit www.gov.uk/civil-service-apprenticeships before 16 March 2015.

Minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude said:

"As part of our long-term economic plan, we are working to ensure that we have the very best people working in the Civil Service. We created the Fast Track Apprenticeship Scheme to recognise that young people who leave school and go straight into the world of work have much to offer. In time, I hope to see some of them rise to fill the very highest posts in the Civil Service."

Chief Executive of the Civil Service John Manzoni said:

"This year we are looking for even more young talented people to join the Civil Service. While receiving fantastic training and experience in a variety of disciplines, successful applicants have the opportunity to work on some incredibly important projects making a real difference from day 1. These apprenticeships are here to attract a new generation of talented school-leavers who are looking for an alternative to higher education and want to take up one of the exciting and diverse roles available in the Civil Service. I look forward to welcoming them in September."

Applications for Civil Service Apprenticeships are open from 2 February 2015 to 16 March 2015, with successful applicants starting work in September 2015.

This year, all 750 places are on offer to non-graduates. Fast Track Apprenticeship candidates require 5 A* to C grades at GCSE (including Maths and English).

Departments and professions within the Civil Service will continue to run their own apprenticeship schemes alongside the new cross-government scheme.

Fast Track Apprenticeship The Fast Track Apprenticeship Scheme offers 450 young people the opportunity to work at the heart of government in positions with real responsibility.

The scheme, introduced in 2013 with 100 places, offers a level 4 higher apprenticeship and permanent employment at Executive Officer Level. They will also be offered permanent roles if they successfully complete their apprenticeships.

Apprentices will:

• receive a 2-year structured training programme
• develop a range of skills through training and learning on the job
• at the end of the programme, have the opportunity to apply as established civil servants for other Civil Service career opportunities, including applying for the Fast Stream

Operational Delivery Apprenticeship The new Operational Delivery scheme offers a Level 3 apprenticeship for 300 young people. It will be a new route for young talented people to begin their career in a role that helps provide services to customers.

This scheme runs for 18 months. Apprentices will gain significant work experience in some of the largest government departments.