Meet - Government Social Research
Hello. We are Government Social Research (GSR), the professional body for social researchers in the Civil Service. Our 2,400+ members work across over 30 departments and organisations.
GSR members enable government to understand issues relating to society, groups and individuals. They support policy debate and decision-making through a variety of approaches, advice and evidence.
Skills we look for
What makes us a great employer
Generous annual leave
We offer 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 5 years of service. This is in addition to 8 public holidays. You also get an extra paid day off work for the King’s birthday.
Health, well-being and discount schemes
We provide a range of schemes, memberships, and well-being discounts to help you feel healthy and supported, in and outside of work. Things like:
- Discounted gym memberships
- Retail discounts
- Cycle to Work schemes
- Reward and Recognition vouchers
- Technology and smartphone discounts
- Financial Well-Being portal
Flexible working
Flexible working patterns allowing you to vary the length of your working day, as long as you work your total monthly full time contracted hours.
Generous pension scheme
The Civil Service Pension Scheme is one of the best workplace pension schemes in the UK public sector.
Apprenticeships Details
Government Social Research Degree Apprenticeship Programme
The Government Social Research Degree Apprenticeship Programme (GSR DAP) is a four-year apprenticeship programme which offers a first of its kind opportunity to gain real experience working on some of the government’s most impactful projects while gaining a bespoke undergraduate degree in social research.
About the Apprenticeship programme
This is the UK’s first ever bespoke applied social research undergraduate degree apprenticeship. You will develop transferable and applied knowledge, skills and behaviours that will set you up for a long career in modern social research. The course will cover a broad range of contemporary quantitative and qualitative social research methods and skills, alongside how they can be applied to bring about real-world change and help governments and organisations make better decisions.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- how to collect and use data for analysis in a range of different social contexts
- how to design impactful research projects that could inform some of society’s most pressing questions
- how to make use of modern social research software that will also bring you transferrable skills in coding
- undertake an independent research project in an area of relevant interest to you.
Training Provider
Apprentices will typically spend one day a week being taught by some of the world’s foremost social research experts at the University of Kent. Most learning will take place virtually.
Apprentices will work closely with academic methods experts and peers remotely through weekly online live lectures and seminars, and face-to-face through an annual residential on campus. These are occasions for both in-depth learning and socialising with fellow apprentices. Throughout the degree, apprentices will have access to one-to-one coaching and guidance from a dedicated course tutor.
Completion of an apprenticeship
Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship and after passing the End-Point Assessment, you will receive a full honours degree from the University of Kent and a guaranteed permanent graduate job as a member of the Government Social Research Service.
Applying for our Apprenticeships
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Start
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To begin your application, you’ll need to apply on Civil Service Jobs.
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You will need access to a laptop/desktop computer. You may be required to complete two online tests: verbal and numerical tests. You will move from one test to the other only if you meet the minimum requirement at the completion of each test. Here are some practice tests to help you prepare.
Did you know that, in addition to practice tests, there are a series of short videos to help you prepare and know what to expect? Watch them here.
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If you have met the minimum requirements of the online tests, you will be invited to complete a personal statement (1000 words max). Your statement should include the following:
- Why are you are interested in the apprenticeship?
- How are you are planning to balance work and study?
- How will you keep motivated and track your performance?
If you are successful at the online tests and the personal statement sift, you will receive an outcome by the end of March 2025 and will be invited to the assessment centre.
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As part of the virtual assessment centre, we will evaluate your suitability for the job in two sections through a combination of tasks and activities. Initially, you will undertake a written exercise and following this you will be invited to complete a presentation and interview.
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End
Need some extra support?
The Civil Service is committed to being the most inclusive employer in the UK. To find out more about the adjustments applicants can ask for during the recruitment process, please watch the short film: Requesting a reasonable adjustment for the Civil Service online tests.
What our apprentices do!
My first few months in the role have exceeded any expectations I had. My team and line manager have been so welcoming and supportive. I have had opportunities to meet people from so many areas within the Ministry of Justice and be involved in many different projects.
I was surprised with how much trust I have been given in my role at work so soon. My team have supported me to get involved on projects and provide my insight into our work, and I’m so happy to be able to contribute so early on.
My first few months have been great; my team has been welcoming and made sure I don’t feel overwhelmed but also that I’m learning and being challenged with the work I am completing.
I have also enjoyed the study side as I’m learning about topics brand new to me, making it really interesting.
Behind the Scenes
What's it like to work for Government Social Research?
What does a social researcher do?
Information & Resources
