UUK would positively consider applications from civil or public servants who would wish to apply in the form of a secondment.  

The purpose of this role is to ensure UUK provides policy leadership and maximises its influence on the higher education policy agenda on behalf of the sector and in support of the organisation’s Strategic Plan.  

In addition to leading policy development across a range of areas this role will require building and maintaining strong and influential senior level relationships and networks within the sector, government and other influential stakeholders. 

Interviews are expected to take place on Wednesday 29 July 2026. 

Closing Date: 19 Jul 2026
Category: Jobs

We are looking for an inquisitive, data-driven individual to join the UUK policy team as an Apprentice Economist. This role is designed for someone looking to launch a career in policy and economics, combining high-impact work at the heart of the UK higher education sector with a formal degree-level apprenticeship delivered by the University of Kent.

You will work within the UUK analysis team delivering robust, evidence-based insights that underpin UUK’s influencing work. This role is adapted from the responsibilities of the Policy Officer (Analysis) role, scaled for an Economics degree apprenticeship pathway with structured learning and supported delivery. You will gain practical experience in:

• Data analysis, visualisation, modelling and interpretation

• Data security, privacy, and ethics

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

• Higher Education policy issues, with the chance to influence government decisions on economic growth, opportunity, industrial strategy and more.

• Communication and stakeholder collaboration

• Learning and continuous development

About the team: 

UUK’s Policy Group is a team of around 25 staff working in multidisciplinary teams to influence policies that matter to universities.

The analysis function plays a critical role in ensuring policy positions are grounded in credible evidence and communicated effectively to government, stakeholders, and the public.

Eligibility requirements: 

Be 18 years or older before the start date (September 2026)

Be a UK resident or have the right to live and work in the UK for the entire duration of the programme

Not be registered on another government-funded course ending August 2026 or later

Meet the University of Kent’s requirements for the degree apprenticeship programme, which are to hold at least five GCSE passes (or equivalent), including Mathematics at grade B / 6 or above and English at grade 4 or above. You are also required to have achieved at least 120 UCAS points at A level (equivalent to three Bs).

Hold (or be predicted to hold) at least one A Level or equivalent qualification, in Mathematics

Apprenticeship programme and learning: 

You will complete a degree apprenticeship, combining structured learning with on-the-job delivery.

Over this four year programme, you will work towards a BSc economics and a Professional Economist Degree Apprenticeship (ST0603). Further information is available from the University of Kent.

Study time: This role is set at 0.75 FTE on the job training and 0.25 formal study, to protect time for apprenticeship learning and study.

Training and development: As well as the degree apprenticeship programme, UUK will provide:

• Structured on-the-job training and mentoring from your line manager

• Access to a wider community of analysts across UUK, and stakeholders including government and Universities, with opportunities to learn from others

• Oversight, coaching, and strategic direction from the Head of Analysis

• The opportunity to develop a portfolio of analytical work demonstrating applied skills, with the potential to publish your analysis.

To apply for this role, please follow this link: https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/VAC2000040403

Closing Date: 17 Jul 2026
Category: Jobs