The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is looking for ambitious and dedicated individuals to join its Environment Group Executive Assistant Apprenticeship. This is your chance to earn a competitive salary while gaining a recognised qualification, all within a role that supports the leaders shaping our planet’s future. If you’ve been searching for dynamic civil service apprenticeship jobs, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Environment Group Executive Assistant Apprenticeship Overview
Property |
Details |
|---|---|
Position Title |
Environment Group Executive Assistant Apprenticeship |
Department |
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) |
Locations |
Bristol, London, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, York |
Salary |
£29,715 to £34,435 per annum (dependent on location) |
Apprenticeship |
Business Administration Level 3 Apprenticeship |
Application Deadline |
10 November 2025 at 11:55 PM |
Your Mission: The Heart of the Operation
As a DEFRA executive assistant apprentice, you won’t just be learning; you’ll be doing. You will provide comprehensive support to one or more senior leaders, becoming the central point of contact for their teams and ensuring the smooth and efficient running of their divisions. This is a fast-paced role where your organisational skills will be key. Your responsibilities will include :
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Managing complex diaries, prioritising meetings, and ensuring senior leaders are prepared for their engagements.
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Acting as the first point of contact for a wide range of internal and external colleagues, mastering professional stakeholder relations.
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Monitoring inboxes, flagging urgent matters, and responding to queries with confidence and accuracy.
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Providing crucial logistics support, including booking travel, accommodation, and meeting rooms.
This business administration apprenticeship will give you an unparalleled insight into the workings of government and environmental policy.
The Ideal Candidate: Are You Who We’re Looking For?
We are looking for individuals with the right attitude and a drive to succeed. While we will provide full UK apprenticeship training, there are a few core qualities you’ll need to bring :
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Exceptional Organisation: You must be a highly organised person who can manage multiple tasks and changing priorities.
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Strong Communication Skills: You need to be a clear and confident communicator, both in writing and verbally.
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A Proactive Approach: We want someone who takes initiative, works well independently, and is adaptable.
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Tech Savvy: You should have a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office proficiency, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
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Eligibility: You must be 16 or over, live in England, and not hold a qualification higher than a Level 4.
Why Launch Your Career with DEFRA?
Choosing one of these Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs jobs is an investment in your future. This isn’t just a role; it’s a career launchpad. The benefits are outstanding :
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Earn While You Learn: Gain a formal qualification without the student debt, all while earning a fantastic salary.
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Excellent Pension: You’ll be enrolled in the Civil Service pension with a 28.97% employer contribution.
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Work-Life Balance: DEFRA is a leader in flexible working UK jobs, offering options that support a healthy balance.
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A Career with Purpose: Your work will directly support leaders who are protecting our environment for future generations.
Ready to Apply? Here’s Your Step-by-Step Guide
The UK government apprenticeship application process is competitive, so careful preparation is key. Here’s how to apply for the DEFRA apprenticeship and make your application stand out:
Application Deadline: The DEFRA apprenticeship closing date is 10 November 2025.
Your Application Checklist:
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Write a Compelling Personal Statement: You will need to submit a 500-word personal statement that demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria. Focus on your organisational abilities, communication skills, and adaptability.
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Prepare for the Interview: If you are successful at the sift stage, you will be invited to an online interview. Be prepared to deliver a five-minute verbal presentation and answer strength-based questions. Following the Civil Service Success Profiles guide is a great way to prepare.
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Submit Online: All applications must be submitted through the Civil Service Jobs portal before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the salary for this business admin level 3 apprenticeship?
The salary for the Environment Group Executive Assistant Apprenticeship is between £29,715 and £34,435 per annum, depending on your location. The London roles receive a higher salary to reflect the cost of living.
What are the DEFRA apprenticeship eligibility criteria?
To be eligible, you must be 16 or over, ordinarily resident in the UK, and work more than 50% of your time in England. Crucially, you cannot hold a qualification that is higher than a Level 4, as the apprenticeship must provide you with substantive new skills.
What happens after I complete the apprenticeship?
This is a permanent role. Upon successful completion of your business administration level 3 apprenticeship, you will have the skills, knowledge, and behaviours to continue in your role as a qualified Executive Officer within DEFRA, with many opportunities for further career progression.
