At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR functions and help create a thriving workplace culture.
- Company: Join AWE, a leader in national security and nuclear science.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £16,750, generous holidays, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while learning from top industry leaders.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English.
The predicted salary is between 14000 - 19500 £ per year.
HR Level 3 Apprenticeship - Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4PR
Job Type: Full-TimeSalary: Up to £16750 per annumJob title and apprenticeship level: HR Apprenticeship (Level 3 - Advanced)
About AWE
We\'re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK\'s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.
Our work is critical. We\'re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK\'s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that\'s just part of the story.
We support the UK government in a range of vital areas - from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.
At AWE, you\'ll find more than just a job. You\'ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you\'re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.
Be extraordinary at AWE.
About the apprenticeship:
Human Resources (HR) is a function in AWE, that directly provides services and support to our Workforce, that enable people to carry out their jobs effectively and make the most of their time at AWE. On the HR Apprenticeship, you will gain skills and knowledge in several areas of the HR Function, by attending placements including:
Case management (investigations, disciplinaries absence management)
Reward and Recognition (Governance of reward processes, recognition of staff achievements)
Recruitment (supporting the internal and external recruitment of AWE)
Business Partners (working with the business at a tactical and strategic level)
Learning and Development (supporting the learning and development of AWE employees)
HR Help Desk (dealing with general queries, forwarding onto appropriate depts)
Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship:
Reward advisor
HR Coordinator
HR Advisor
HR Associate
HR Analyst
HR Advisor Onboarding
Apprenticeship Standard:
HR Support (ST0239).
Training Provider:
Farnborough College of Technology
About you:
PC literate
Good communication skills
Excellent team working skills
Health and safety aware
Effective at following instructions
Ability to concentrate for long periods
Passion for your chosen profession
This role may appeal to you if you enjoy:
Working as part of a large team to support a common goal
Helping others
Working in an office environment
Planning and being organised
Understand how the business operates from an HR perspective
Entry Requirements:
5 GCSE\'s at grade 4/C or above including Maths and English
Applicants must be aged 18 or over, as of 31st August 2026 due to security clearance requirements
You must be a British National to apply for a role with us.
The Benefits:
A starting salary of £16,750 yearly, increasing to £23,500 in Year 2 and annually throughout your apprenticeship - subject to meeting key milestones and performance expectations.
Market leading contributory pension scheme
Generous holiday entitlement of 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off
Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure
Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services
Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping us to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.
Location:
Green Park, Reading
Start Date: Tuesday 1st September 2026
Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 2nd October 2026 due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance.
Duration:
18 months plus End Point Assessment
Recruitment Process
This vacancy will close on 7 th December 2025 , but we review applications as they come in-so we strongly encourage you to apply early.
We want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So we\'ve kept it simple with a three-step process.
Online application: Apply for one apprenticeship; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.
Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don\'t be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect.
In person assessment: Those successful at testing will be invited to an in-person assessment centre. The Assessment Centres are scheduled for 26th January 2026 and 5th February 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, we\'ll keep all applicants informed throughout the process.
These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.
We encourage diverse applicants and we\'re here to support you all the way. We encourage you to let us know if you need any adjustments on your application. Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR. Learn about how we handle your data.
Contact us
If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at
HR Level 3 Apprenticeship - Reading employer: AWE Nuclear Security Technologies
At AWE, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to national security while developing your career in Human Resources. Our supportive work culture fosters growth and learning, with access to top leaders in the field and a generous benefits package that includes a competitive salary, extensive holiday entitlement, and a market-leading pension scheme. Join us in Reading, where you can be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making a difference.
Contact Details:
AWE Nuclear Security Technologies Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Level 3 Apprenticeship - Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research AWE and its mission. Understanding their values and goals will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your in-person assessment, try out some mock interviews with friends or family. This will help you feel more comfortable and confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! Since this role involves working as part of a large team, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated effectively in the past. Highlighting your ability to work well with others can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship and what we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Level 3 Apprenticeship - Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for HR and what makes you unique.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the HR Level 3 Apprenticeship. Use keywords from the job description to show us you’re a perfect fit!
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!:Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough read. Typos and errors can distract from your great qualifications, so take the time to ensure everything is polished and professional.
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to apply! We review applications as they come in, so getting your application in early can give you a better chance of standing out. Head over to our website and get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at AWE Nuclear Security Technologies
✨Know Your HR Basics
Before the interview, brush up on key HR concepts and terminology. Understanding case management, recruitment processes, and employee development will show your enthusiasm for the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since good communication is essential in HR, prepare to demonstrate your skills. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated in a team or resolved conflicts. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thoughts clearly during the interview.
✨Research AWE's Mission
Familiarise yourself with AWE's mission and values. Knowing about their work in national security and how HR supports this can give you an edge. It shows you're genuinely interested in the company and understand the importance of the HR function within it.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship, team dynamics, or growth opportunities. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you assess if AWE is the right fit for you.
