At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in procurement processes, manage suppliers, and support contract negotiations.
- Company: Join NCC, a leader in procurement with a dynamic work culture.
- Benefits: Earn £18,000 per annum, gain a globally recognised qualification, and enjoy generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Engage in exciting projects and receive guidance from experienced professionals.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in procurement while earning and learning valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Some business experience or a willingness to learn is essential.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 18000 £ per year.
Salary: £18,000 per annum + Benefits
Start date: Early September (College starts mid‑late September)
Looking to launch your career? Step into a career that’s been shaping the world since ancient times—now transformed into a fast‑paced, high‑impact role at the heart of every successful business. As a Procurement Apprentice at NCC, you’ll build real skills in managing suppliers, supporting us to make smart buying decisions, and driving value across the organisation. Gain hands‑on experience, earn while you learn, and kickstart a future where what you’ll be doing directly influences organisation effectiveness.
NCC is offering an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Level 3 Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprentice. This is your chance to gain hands‑on experience, earn while you learn, and build a long‑term career in purchasing and procurement.
What you’ll gain:- A CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate (globally recognised qualification)
- Up to 2 years of structured learning and development
- 18 months of study
- 6‑month end‑point assessment
- A strong foundation for a career in procurement, supply chain, and business operations
- Study CIPS Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3, gaining fundamental knowledge and skills.
- Assist Category Leads with drafting tender documents, running supplier competitions, and evaluating responses.
- Gain hands‑on experience in contract negotiations, supporting senior team members and leading certain activities.
- Monitor supplier performance, generate reports, and ensure contract compliance.
- Help maintain records, track negotiations, and update contracts and correspondence.
- Identify risks in the procurement process, ensuring the best outcomes for the business.
- Use the ERP system for processing requisitions, raising orders, and onboarding new suppliers.
- Engage with stakeholders across the business to support procurement activities.
- Source new suppliers, conduct market research, and stay updated on industry trends.
- Attend meetings, collaborate with teams, and support the drafting of import/export requirements and contracts.
- Some business administration experience or working towards a business qualification.
- Willingness to learn and enthusiasm.
- Commitment to personal and professional growth.
Functional Skills lessons will be offered to those who haven’t achieved Level 2 in Maths and English. Apprentices over 19 are not required to complete Functional Skills unless needed. The NCC will support you in achieving Level 2 Maths and English if needed.
What You Can Expect from the NCC:- A supportive and dynamic work environment.
- Guidance from a team of procurement professionals at various stages of their careers.
- Opportunities to engage in exciting projects and develop your skills.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Procurement & Supply Environments
- Ethical Procurement & Supply
- Contract Administration
- Team Dynamics & Change
- Socially Responsible Warehousing & Distribution
The programme will be delivered at SGS College, Filton Campus. Start date at NCC will be in early September 2026, slightly ahead of the programme beginning in mid September 2026, to familiarise yourself with the NCC first. The apprenticeship blends theoretical learning with practical workplace application. The programme includes three main phases:
- Foundations: Essential industry knowledge.
- Development: Skill‑building through practical experience.
- Final Assessment: A project and formal evaluation to demonstrate competence.
Apprentices will gain critical thinking, problem‑solving, and project management skills, preparing them for real‑world challenges.
Work‑Based Commitment:You will spend 20% of your working week in college and engaging in off‑the‑job training activities, such as shadowing or participating in relevant meetings.
Assessment:The CIPS qualification includes 5 multiple‑choice exams at the end of each module (remote or in‑person). End‑point assessment (EPA): A 3000‑word work‑based project, presenting solutions to a business issue, followed by a presentation and professional discussion based on your portfolio.
Qualification:Level 3 Procurement & Supply Assistant Apprenticeship (Includes Level 3 CIPS Certificate).
Closing date:For applications is Sunday 12th July through the Government Apprenticeship website.
How to apply:If you are interested in NCC and the apprenticeship please go to the Government Apprenticeship website or use the reference number VAC2000036067 to apply.
Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3 employer: Materials Engineering
NCC is an exceptional employer that offers a supportive and dynamic work environment, perfect for aspiring procurement professionals. With a commitment to employee growth, you will receive guidance from experienced team members while gaining hands-on experience and a globally recognised CIPS Level 3 qualification. Enjoy generous benefits, including a cycle to work scheme and a strong focus on personal and professional development, all within a vibrant location at SGS College, Filton Campus.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3
✨Get Involved in Local Procurement Communities
Dive into local procurement forums and groups! There are often networking events and workshops where you can meet industry professionals. This is your chance to ask questions, learn more about the field, and even make some connections. Plus, it’ll give you a leg up when looking for apprenticeships.
✨Showcase Your Interest Through Projects
Think about taking on small projects related to procurement, like simulating a buying process or researching suppliers. You can even showcase these on platforms like LinkedIn. This will demonstrate your passion for the field and help you stand out when you’re applying for an apprenticeship at places like Materials Engineering.
✨Connect with Your School’s Career Services
Don’t forget about your school’s career services! They often have exclusive listings and can help you find apprenticeship openings in procurement. They might even have connections to companies like Materials Engineering that you wouldn’t find on traditional job boards.
✨Be Active on Job Boards and Apply Directly
Keep an eye on apprenticeship job boards and don't hesitate to apply directly through our website. Many companies like Materials Engineering might list openings there before they hit wider job boards. So, be proactive; the early bird gets the worm!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Enthusiasm for Procurement:As you're applying for a procurement apprenticeship, we want to see your passion for the field! In your cover letter, share why you're interested in procurement, maybe mention any relevant projects, or experiences you've had in school or outside of it. This is your chance to let your love for the industry shine through!
Highlight Organisational Skills:In procurement, being organised is key. When crafting your CV, make sure to showcase any relevant skills or experiences that reflect your organisational abilities. This could include managing group projects, budgeting for school events, or even any admin tasks you've done. The more specific, the better!
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Key Skills:For a procurement apprenticeship, think about including skills like negotiation, analysis, and communication. Make sure your CV highlights any practical experiences you have, such as working in customer service or team projects, that demonstrate these skills. Tailoring your CV helps us see how you fit into the role!
Keep Your Application Conversational:Since this is an apprenticeship, it's important to keep your application a bit more conversational and friendly. Use a tone that reflects your personality while still remaining professional. This will help us at Materials Engineering get a sense of who you are beyond just the paper!
How to prepare for a job interview at Materials Engineering
✨Know Your Procurement Processes
In procurement, it's all about understanding the supply chain and negotiation tactics. Brush up on common procurement strategies and be ready to discuss how you would approach supplier relationships. Demonstrating your awareness of these concepts can really set you apart during the interview with Materials Engineering.
✨Get Familiar with Tools of the Trade
Make sure you’ve dived into procurement software or tools relevant to the industry, like SAP Ariba or Coupa. Even if you haven't used them directly, showing that you know what they are and how they impact procurement can impress your interviewers at Materials Engineering.
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this is an apprenticeship, the focus will be on your potential and attitude. Be ready to talk about why you're excited about a career in procurement and how this apprenticeship will help you grow. Share any relevant projects or experiences, even if they're informal.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You might get hit with scenarios like dealing with a supplier who’s fallen short on delivery. Think about how you’d handle such situations and showcase your problem-solving skills. This demonstrates that you not only know the theory but can apply it in real-world situations!
