Data Science Degree Apprenticeship Level 6 - GORS

Job summary

Are you curious about data and how it can solve real-world problems? Do you enjoy using mathematics and analytical thinking to find solutions? Would you like to earn while you learn and gain a degree at the same time?

If you’re a recent school leaver, considering your next step, or looking for a career change with a pathway into the Civil Service, this apprenticeship could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to be in employment with the added bonus of being able to 'earn as you learn.' Once you have completed your apprenticeship you will be equipped with all the relevant knowledge to progress within your chosen career path.

Data is at the heart of modern decision-making. From improving public services to driving innovation, data science helps shape the future. To unlock the potential of new data sources, we need talented people with the right skills to make a difference.

As a Data Science Apprentice, you’ll join experienced teams across government, working on projects that matter. You’ll develop technical skills, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to work that impacts millions of people.

This apprenticeship is an entry route to two professions; Government Statistical Group (GSG) and Government Operational Research Service (GORS). This campaign is for the GORS route and is linked with advert 449174 Data Science Degree Apprenticeship - GSG, therefore the interview process will be combined. Candidates do not need to submit an application for both.

To find out more about these professions please refer to the links below

GSS - https://analysisfunction.civilservice.gov.uk/government-statistical-service-and-statistician-group/

GORS - https://analysisfunction.civilservice.gov.uk/government-operational-research-service/

Once you have completed your apprenticeship you will be equipped with all the relevant knowledge to progress within your chosen career path. You will be eligible to apply for GSG Statistical Officer or GORS Operational Research Analyst roles across government which are regularly advertised on Civil Service Jobs You can also visit our GSS Apprenticeship page to learn more about opportunities that will be available to you on completion of your Apprenticeship and to find out some further information.

Job description

The Data Scientist Degree Apprenticeship is an opportunity for individuals interested in maths and data, to work towards a recognised degree alongside full time employment in government.

If you are unsure of the next step in your career, or if University is right for you, then this role may be exactly what you are looking for.

Roles could include:

• Conducting data analysis and visualisation of key datasets used to produce the required statistics.
• Using scientific and mathematical techniques to find better solutions to complex management problems and improve decision making in government.
• Producing design documents and diagrams for data processing systems, considering the statistical or data processing methods that are needed for the task, as well as the design of the overall data model.
• Maintaining and reviewing documentation for statistical and data processing functions, as well as data processing pipelines

What is included in the apprenticeship?

In England the course will be delivered by the University of Nottingham and will follow a hybrid model that includes a requirement for some attendance at the university. The programme will be 42 months, with the last six months being dedicated to the End Point Assessment.

In Wales the course will be delivered by Cardiff Metropolitan and is taught in person. The programme will be 36 months.

Employment contracts for these posts will depend on the department that you are allocated to.

Brochures from both universities are attached and can be found at the bottom of this advert

The outline will likely cover the below topics.

Indicative modules:
• Programming
• Maths for Data Science
• Probability, Statistics & Data Analysis
• Practice in Inter-disciplinary problem solving
• Analysis and Optimisation
• Data Communication
• Databases
• Geometry and Groups
• Modelling and Numerical Analysis
• Graphs, Networks & Complex Systems
• Data Visualisation
• Artificial Intelligence
• Advanced Data Applications

For more information on the apprenticeship, please visit the Institute for Apprenticeships page on the GSS Website

GSS apprenticeships – Government Analysis Function (civilservice.gov.uk)

Person specification

• Complete both on the job and off the job training. You will be studying towards a BSc in Data Science as part of this Level 6 Apprenticeship
• Select and develop new techniques for solving complex related problems
• Apply these techniques and learn how to showcase them to colleagues
• Develop new skills by using data science techniques
What are we looking for?
Are you:
• Dynamic
• Adaptable
• Innovative in your approach and like to explore new ways of working
• Inquisitive
• Creative
• A team worker
• Good at IT and have an aptitude for maths
• An outstanding problem solver

Standard eligibility criteria for apprenticeship funding:

You are a UK citizen (or have the Right of Abode in the UK, or are a citizen of a country within the
EU, European Economic Area or Switzerland and have been ordinarily resident in such country for at least the last 3 years; with (or eligible for) status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

A non-EEA citizen with permission from the UK government to live in the UK, (not for educational purposes) and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least the previous three years before the start of learning.

Qualifications

To apply for this apprenticeship, you will need to have, or hope to obtain by September 2026 the following:

GCSEs in Mathematics at grade 5 or above and English at grade 4 or above

AND EITHER;

• Three A-Levels: At minimum BBC, including Maths at C or above

OR,

• An A-Level in Mathematics and a Level 4 apprenticeship in a similar subject (i.e. Level 4 Data Analyst) at Distinction or Merit

Candidate are required to fill in the ‘GSS_Apprenticeship_Qualification_Form' document that’s attached to this advert. Failure to complete and attach this form will result in your application being rejected.

Candidates can apply on the strength of their predicted A Levels grades. Applications will be put on hold until such time that the qualification criteria has been met.
Please note Bootcamp certificates are not included among the recognised qualifications for this role.

Any “Data Science” or “Computer Science” qualification achieved at degree level or higher will make you ineligible for this apprenticeship.
Qualifications with modules of data analysis or/ data science or computer science up to a level 4 will also need to be checked to ensure you are eligible for funding.

All qualifications will be checked on a case by case basis at the sifting application stage.

The apprenticeship offers substantive new skills and knowledge;

• You must not already have a qualification of the same type, content and level

• You must not be undertaking another apprenticeship at the same time.

• You must not hold a qualification which makes you eligible to join the GSG or GORS graduate routes (A first or second class honours degree in a numerate subject containing taught statistical content ; or a higher degree, e.g. an MSc or PhD, in a subject containing formal statistical training)

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Working Together
• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing

Technical skills

We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• Technical presentation provided in advance of the interview

Benefits

The Government Statistician Group (GSG) and Government Operational Research Service (GORS) are two of the Government’s analytical professions. All Government Statisticians, Operational Researchers, or other analysts working across Government are part of the Analysis Function.

The Government Statistical Service is a community for all civil servants working in the collection, production and communication of official statistics.

The Government Statistician Group (GSG) is the professional body for Statisticians and Statistical Data Scientists. Our Statisticians and Data Scientists work across a range of government departments, agencies and other public bodies playing a pivotal role in government decision making.

The Government Operational Research Service (GORS) is the professional body for Operational Research (OR) analysts in the Civil Service. We support policy-making, strategy, and operations across Government. GORS analysts apply advanced analytical methods to define, model and solve complex problems in order to make better decisions.

Working in the Government Analysis Function means you:
• Have the opportunity to work across a range of government departments, agencies and other public bodies playing a pivotal role in government decision making
• Contribute to society with a unique chance to work on a breadth of projects and issues that make a real difference for the public good
• Challenge and stretch yourself to develop your career and reach your full potential
• Competitive salary
• Flexible working hours
• Highly competitive pension

This breadth of opportunity is what sets the Civil Service apart from any other employer.

We take the well-being of employees seriously and we consider everyone, in whatever department or location in the country to be part of a diverse and inclusive Analysis Function family.

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

Application and online test:

Step 1 – Short application followed by CV and Personal Statement

The application consists of two parts, firstly the short form followed by the full application covering your CV, Personal Statement and Eligibility.

Your CV should cover details of qualifications and employment history and any relevant skills and experience.
Employment history is not a requirement of this role, we welcome applications from both those with and without employment history.

Submit a personal statement of 1000 words based on the questions outlined below.

In your Personal Statement we are looking for evidence of:

1 . What interests you about the apprenticeship?

2. Given the length of this apprenticeship, how will you ensure that you are motivated to keep track of your performance in order to complete the programme?

3. There are times when we receive feedback from others that we don’t want to hear. How would you ensure you acted on that feedback while maintaining a good relationship with that person?

4. What has been your biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome this?

As the criteria are scored, we would recommend that you give clear examples.

Step 2 – Civil Service Judgement Test, Eligibility and Sift

Upon submission of your full application form you will be sent an invitation to complete the Civil Service Judgement test.
There will be full instructions on how to complete the test including an opportunity to practice before undertaking the actual test. These tests are not time limited.

If you fail the test your application will not proceed to the next stage.

If you pass the test, your application will be reviewed for eligibility and sifted against the criteria.

Step 3 – Interview:

If you are successful at step 1 and 2 you will be invited to an online interview this will consist of a technical exercise comprising of a verbal presentation around a data set provided and an interview.

The Technical exercise will give you the opportunity to show us your numeracy and analytical skills.

The interview will also assess a candidate's potential to:
- take ownership of their development;
- analyse data;
- be able to work at pace, both individually and in a team.

Questions will align to Civil Service Behaviours;
• Working Together
• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an assessment.

Sifting will commence from W/C 23rd March

Interviews will be scheduled from W/C 6th April

These dates are subject to change

A reserve list may be held for period of up to 6 months from which further appointments can be made. Candidates should note this is a multi-location campaign and therefore the reserve list is recorded by location in merit order.

*Please note that Individuals will need to have lived in the UK for 3 consecutiveyears immediately prior to applying to enable appropriate checks to be carried out. Certain government departments and locations including London may require additional security clearance.

GSS Recruitment recruit on behalf of multiple Government departments, Arm’s Length Bodies or Non-executive Departmental Bodies. Terms and conditions will depend on the department you are allocated to.

GSS Recruitment cannot offer visa sponsorship for these roles. Any candidate on a visa must ensure that their visa does not expire before the course end date.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check (opens in a new window).

See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.The Civil Service also offers a Redeployment Interview Scheme to civil servants who are at risk of redundancy, and who meet the minimum requirements for the advertised vacancy.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see theCivil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).

Apply and further information

This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative.Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

Job contact :

• Name : GSS Recruitment
• Email : GSS.Recruitment@ONS.gov.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : GSS.Recruitment@ONS.gov.uk

Further information

If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact complaints.recruitment@ons.gov.uk. If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk

Attachments

GSG_GORS_Candidate_Pack_APP_2026 (1) Opens in new window (pdf, 446kB)Mandatory_Qualifications_Template_L6 Opens in new window (docx, 28kB)Uni_of_Nottingham_2025 Data Scientist Programme Guide Opens in new window (pdf, 1234kB)Cardiff_Met_Degree_Apprenticeships_Brochure (3) Opens in new window (pdf, 1801kB)