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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR team, assist with onboarding, and contribute to employee wellbeing projects.
- Company: Join Howden, a global leader in insurance with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Earn £23,000 salary while gaining a Level 3 HR qualification and real-world experience.
- Why this job: Kickstart your HR career in a supportive environment with plenty of growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your curiosity and willingness to learn!
- Other info: Flexible working options available; join a diverse team committed to making a difference.
Who we are
Howden is a collective – a group of talented and passionate people around the world. We have pushed the boundaries of insurance and collaborate as a powerful international team of 18,000 employees spanning over 100 countries.
People join Howden for our culture. Whether your priorities are work/life balance, career progression, sustainability, volunteering, or other values, you’ll find like‑minded people driving change at Howden.
Location: Milton Keynes
Start date: September 2026
Salary: £23,000
Closing date: 21st November 2025
Howden Retail
Our Retail division is spread across the UK and Ireland and focuses on small to medium enterprises (SMEs), individual clients and private high‑net‑worth clients, providing tailored insurance solutions to meet their needs. We bring together experts to find the right answer for any question, concern, or risk.
Human Resources
Our Human Resources (HR) team supports colleagues across the UK and Ireland with onboarding, wellbeing, development and answering HR questions to create a great place to work.
If you\’re curious about how people are supported at work and enjoy helping others, this could be a perfect first step in your career.
The role
This is a one‑year apprenticeship programme where you will begin your career in HR as an HR Apprentice. Working closely with our team, you will learn how we support employees, solve problems, and help create a positive workplace experience. You may be involved in tasks such as preparing new joiner paperwork, updating HR systems, or contributing to projects focused on employee wellbeing and training.
You will be part of a friendly and supportive team who will guide you every step of the way. One day a week will be dedicated to studying towards a Level 3 qualification in HR, while earning a salary and gaining real‑world experience.
What you’ll do
- You will gain a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification for your relevant programme. As part of this, you’ll spend one day a week studying with your dedicated trainer to ensure you’re set up for success.
- Take part in a year‑long structured development programme to build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in your role. All apprentices take part, providing a peer group to learn with.
- Respond to HR queries and maintain accurate employee records via our Workday system.
- Learn how we manage onboarding of new starters and ensure our employees are paid correctly and on time.
- Shadow experienced HR Advisors to understand employee relations and workplace queries.
- Develop your ability to respond to general business queries by supporting HR Advisors and observing how they handle requests and advise.
- Contribute to weekly HR reporting in team meetings and learn key metrics and processes.
- Assist with administrative tasks such as preparing documentation and updating HR databases.
What we’re looking for
No experience in insurance or HR is required; we’ll teach you everything you need to know!
- Final year sixth form/college students or recent leavers
- GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or higher
- Self‑sufficient individuals who take initiative
- Interest in process‑driven environments and following processes with accuracy
- Comfortable communicating with managers at various levels
- Curious and eager to learn and develop
- Ability to handle challenging conversations with empathy and professionalism
Application process
Our application process is designed to help you show your potential, not to test what you already know.
- Online application form – no CV required: upload a blank document on the form.
- Online gamified assessment to understand your natural strengths; there are no right or wrong answers, and you can complete it on your phone or laptop.
- Pre‑recorded video interview to share more about yourself in your own time.
- Assessment centre: an in‑person day at a nearby office with group activities. Travel costs for this day are covered.
At Howden, we are committed to equality and diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Follow our Early Careers team on TikTok @earlycareersjo and @millieinsurancecareers for tips and behind‑the‑scenes insights. Think of us as career coaches by your side from start to finish.
What we offer in return
A career that you define. We value diversity and look for individuals who share our values: taking risks to try something new, supporting each other, and making a positive difference at work and beyond.
Reasonable adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to ensure roles align with your needs. This may include flexible hours or hybrid working, where possible. If you’re unsure, apply and we will help determine suitable adjustments.
*Not all positions can accommodate changes to working hours or locations. Reach out to your Recruitment Partner for more information.
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HR Apprenticeship 2026 employer: Howden
Contact Detail:
Howden Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Apprenticeship 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Howden! Research the company culture and values. This will help you connect with the team during your interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their collective.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your pre-recorded video interview, rehearse your answers to common questions. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when sharing about yourself.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the Early Careers team on TikTok! They share valuable tips and insights that can give you an edge in the application process. Plus, it’s a fun way to learn more about the company!
✨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 have access to all the latest updates and opportunities directly from Howden.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Apprenticeship 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out the application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for HR and helping others.
Keep It Simple: Our application process is straightforward, so keep your answers clear and concise. Avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role. Remember, we’re looking for potential, not perfection!
Prepare for the Video Interview: This is your chance to tell us more about yourself! Find a quiet space, dress smartly, and think about what you want to share. Practice answering common questions to feel more confident when it’s time to record.
Check Your Tech: Before you dive into the online assessments, make sure your device is ready to go! Test your internet connection and ensure you can access everything smoothly. We want you to focus on showcasing your strengths without any hiccups.
How to prepare for a job interview at Howden
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, take some time to research Howden and their HR practices. Familiarise yourself with their culture and values, especially around employee wellbeing and support. This will help you connect your answers to what they care about.
✨Show Your Curiosity
Since this role is all about learning and development, be ready to express your eagerness to learn. Prepare questions that show your interest in HR processes and how they impact employees. This will demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for the apprenticeship.
✨Practice Empathy
As an HR apprentice, you'll need to handle sensitive conversations. Think of examples from your past where you've shown empathy or resolved conflicts. Sharing these experiences can highlight your suitability for the role and your ability to support colleagues.
✨Be Yourself
Howden values authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Share your unique experiences and perspectives during the interview. This will help you stand out and show that you’re a good fit for their collaborative culture.