Turn your curiosity into a reality
You may not have heard of the work we do, but behind the closed doors of our hi-tech facilities, some of the world’s most inventive experts are crafting, designing, and creating exciting one-off products to solve unique and interesting problems. With our fully funded Government Apprenticeship opportunities, we can help you push technology to its limits, and turn your curiosity into a reality.
Have you got what it takes?
Are you naturally curious about technology? Do you delve into the heart of gadgets, pursuing what’s possible - while constantly asking ‘what if?’ at every corner? If this has led to a fascination of how tech works, and an interest in designing, improving or making repairs to gadgets or programming and de-bugging nifty software applications, then our apprenticeship is the right one for you.
To earn a place as an HMGCC apprentice, you'll need to meet our entry requirements, have bags of enthusiasm and a genuine interest in software, technology or engineering.
We are offering the following apprenticeship programmes
These are fully funded Government Apprenticeships, with different entry levels depending on the programme.
Software Development & Testing
End Qualification
Diplomas in:
- Software Language
- Software Development Methodologies
- Certificate in C#
BCS (British Computer Society) qualification in System Development Essentials
Entry Point
Level 4 start only
Duration
30 months
Electronics Pathway
End Qualification
- BTEC level 2 foundation competence
- BTEC level 3 development competence
- BTEC level 3 development technical knowledge
Entry Point
Level 3 start only
Duration
36 months
Mechanical Manufacturing Pathway
End Qualification
- BTEC level 2 foundation competence
- BTEC level 3 development competence
- BTEC level 3 development technical knowledge
Entry Point
Level 3 start only
Duration
36 months
Our Apprenticeships
We invest a huge amount of time in developing and supporting our apprentices because we recognise just how important you are for the future success of HMGCC. And once you join us, you’ll see what an amazing career you could have with us – over 80% of our apprentices still work for our organisation since they started nearly ten years ago. Why? Because we value our staff and help you to develop your potential in order to get the career you want: this could include further training, online learning or secondments internally and across Government to try something new or even a little bit different!
What you’ll learn
You get a fully rounded programme that is focused on your technical, personal and professional development and is fully aligned with the Government apprenticeship learning requirements.
You’ll have a blend of classroom training, online learning, mentored work placements and projects. Each programme is specifically tailored to get the most out of your learning and practical sessions.
Your on-the-job training will be based in our high-tech facilities in Milton Keynes and your classroom training will take place at a nearby college.
Your apprenticeship includes:
- Training to support the creation of one-off, cutting-edge products
- Learning from the most inventive experts around
- Working in an impressive, hi-tech facility
- Being part of a well-supported team, with other apprentices who will share your experience.
Why should you choose an apprenticeship with us?
- We’ll cover all your tuition and training fees
- You’ll receive a starting salary £18,296, which increases each year
- And you’ll also get the same brilliant benefits that everyone who works here does, which includes gym access, bikes for work scheme and a balcony cafe. Look through our benefits to find out more
- We listen to what you're thinking, and show you how the work we do is beyond anything you've seen or heard of before.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old must I be to apply?
To apply for one of our 2020 apprenticeships, you must be 17 years and 6 months old on or before 28th February 2020. There is no upper age limit.
Have you got any advice for completing my application form?
We recommend you:
- Look at the ‘Technical Skills’ criteria for the position and answer all the questions in full
- Tailor your C.V. to show us how your skills match our job description
- Tell us about why you want to work at HMGCC and why you’re interested in the role
- Tell us about anything you do in relation to engineering at home/work/college. Do you build or fix computers? Have you got an interest in computer programming or making things?
- Don’t be afraid to sell yourself and shout about your skills.
Is HMGCC the right fit for me?
Qualifications will depend on which apprenticeship you apply for. You can find the details in the job description.
If you are the type of person who:
- Enjoys working in a team and treats everyone with respect
- Enjoys coming up with creative solutions to problems by looking at them from different perspectives
- Is able to explain your thinking and ideas to others
- Enjoys sharing your knowledge and experiences with colleagues
- Takes pride in doing your best, even in a challenging situation
- Is open minded, willing to try something new, to improve and to learn along the way
... then yes, you'll fit right in and we'd love to have you in our team.
I’ve submitted an application. What happens next?
Your application will be sifted against our essential entry criteria and if it’s chosen, we’ll invite you to attend an initial aptitude test (and colour blind test for some roles). Throughout the process, you’ll be asked to attend a group assessment, technical interview, and occupational psychologist interview (not as scary as it sounds!).
If you’re successful, you’ll be invited to attend an Open Day. You’ll have to go through our security vetting, as the work we do with the Government is confidential. If you pass, you’ll be invited back to sign your contract of employment and attend a new starter induction that takes place in September.
Will HMGCC help me to gain additional qualifications?
Once you've finished your apprenticeship, support for additional qualifications is available along as they meet our business requirements, as well as your development needs.
When can I apply?
Applications for 2020 are now closed.
Can I apply for more than one apprentice place?
No. You can only make one application, so please select the apprenticeship most suited to you. But don’t worry, if we think you’d be more suited to a different area, we’ll chat about that with you at interview.
What if I want to retrain?
You can still apply, as long as your qualifications or experience is in a different area to the apprenticeship that you are applying for. Please get in contact with us to discuss whether you’re eligible.
What happens when I finish my apprenticeship?
At the end of the scheme, you’ll continue to build on your career at HMGCC while continuing to develop your skills. The opportunities here are boundless if you have the potential and the ambition.
Any more questions?
If you have any further questions about our apprenticeship schemes or your apprenticeship application, please get in contact with us and someone will get back to you with the answers.
