Apprentice Public Relations and Communications Assistant

What will the apprentice be doing?

During the apprenticeship you will learn a range of skills, from writing press releases, developing content, co-ordinating engagement events and communicating with a diverse range of audiences. This apprenticeship requires a dynamic and well-organised individual with a keen eye for detail and a willingness to develop an understanding of the higher education environment at both local and national levels. Reporting to the Communications Manager , the apprenticeship will cover a wide variety of tasks essential to supporting the University to raise its profile, influence a range of local and national audiences and to position the University as a key player in a variety of scenarios.

During this apprenticeship you will learn the following:

To work with the design and publications team to support production of communications material of the highest standard across a range of forms: online, publications, digital media (including podcasts and video production), as well as presentations and briefing material for our senior leaders.

To respond to media and social media enquiries and create social media content and press releases

To carry out tasks relating to the logistical and successful delivery of events and visits, e.g. venue, catering, event format, contributions from colleagues across the academic colleges

To cover all aspects of administration in the run up to events and on the day.

To be confident in flagging up any issues which arise and helping the team to resolve them quickly and efficiently.

To work using own initiative, prioritising and reprioritising work in a pressured schedule.

Support the wider team by tracking progress against clear and measurable objectives and KPIs. The post holder will ensure that evaluation of the programme of activities is carried out regularly.

To take minutes of meetings and circulate them to project groups as required.

To maintain a contacts database for the use of the team.

To support the University's wider impact and engagement agenda by organising engagement events.

To monitor the political and news diary and support the team to identify opportunities to raise the profile and reputation of the University through events or media activity.

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

Apprentices will learn via a mixture of online and in person training as they achieve the level 4 apprenticeship standard in Public Relations. The formal training is normally on a day release which is complemented by on the job training at the University.

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Communications Officer

PR Officer

Marketing Officer

Digital/Social Media Officer

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, IT skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Customer care skills, Problem solving skills, Presentation skills, Administrative skills, Analytical skills, Logical, Team working, Creative, Initiative, Non judgemental, Patience

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English (Grade C or above (4-9)) Essential
GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade C or above (4-9)) Essential