At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with media relations, content creation, and event organisation while learning new skills.
- Company: Join the Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in science communication and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths required; passion for communication and science is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
You will learn new skills through PA Media Academy and hone them at Pirbright, assisting with writing digital content (internal and external), editing webpages, intranet pages and social media content, event and meeting organisation, liaising with external providers and helping with the administration of the communications office.
About the Employer
The Pirbright Institute is a world-leading centre of excellence in the research and surveillance of viral diseases of livestock and viruses that spread from animals to humans. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness. Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.
What You'll Do
- Public Relations & Media Relations
- Assist with preparing media monitoring reports and evaluating campaign performance.
- Monitor media coverage and prepare reports on publicity outcomes/coverage.
- Support media enquiries and maintain media contact databases.
- Research journalists, influencers and stakeholders to support outreach activities.
- Content Creation
- Produce written content - articles, blogs, internal communications and social media posts.
- Support creation of multimedia content, including photography, video and audio materials.
- Ensure all content is accurate, accessible, engaging and aligned with the Institute's brand guidelines.
- Digital Communications
- Assist in managing social media outputs – posting, tagging, sharing.
- Monitor engagement metrics and contribute to performance reports.
- Edit and maintain Institute webpages and intranet content under supervision.
- Campaign Support
- Assist in planning and delivering communication and public relations campaigns.
- Support planning and delivery of stakeholder engagement and outreach activities.
- Help coordinate events, launches, community engagement activities and promotional initiatives.
- Support campaign evaluation and reporting.
- Internal Communications
- Assist in developing communications that inform and engage employees via The Bull.
- Support the production of internal announcements and staff updates.
- Contribute ideas to improve employee engagement and communication effectiveness.
- Administration & Stakeholder Support
- Maintain communication records, databases and documentation.
- Coordinate meetings, events and project activities as required.
- Build positive relationships with colleagues, suppliers, media contacts and stakeholders.
Training Outcome
- Campaign assistant
- Communications assistant
- Internal communications assistant
- Junior account executive
- Junior press officer
- Junior publicist
- Public affairs assistant
- Public relations assistant
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Team working
- Experience creating content
- Video design
- Interest in science
- Student media
Qualifications
- Essential - GCSE - English - 4
- Essential - GCSE - Maths - 4
Course Information
- Course: Public relations and communications assistant (level 4)
- Level: 4
- Route: Sales, marketing and procurement
- Apprenticeship Level: Higher
Working Arrangements
- Working Week: Monday to Thursday 08:45 - 17:15, Friday 08:30 - 16:30
- Expected Duration: 1 Year 2 Months
- Training Provider: THE PRESS ASSOCIATION LIMITED
Public Relations and Communications Apprentice in Brookwood employer: The Pirbright Institute
The Pirbright Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and safety are at the forefront of laboratory operations. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including annual leave and a pension scheme, and a collaborative culture that values leadership and expertise, this role provides a meaningful opportunity for growth in the biosciences field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Relations and Communications Apprentice in Brookwood
✨Get Involved with Local PR Events
Join local PR or communications meetups and industry events to meet people in the field and learn the ropes. Networking in person can really set you apart, so be sure to introduce yourself and make a memorable impression!
✨Leverage Social Media for Visibility
Show off your personal brand through social media, especially platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Share articles, insights, and even your own thoughts on PR trends – this can help us notice you when you're applying for the apprenticeship with The Pirbright Institute.
✨Seek Out College Career Services
If you're still in education, head to your school's career centre. They can have access to exclusive internship and apprenticeship opportunities and often have connections with companies like The Pirbright Institute that could lead to your dream role.
✨Show Off Your Passion for PR
Create a portfolio or a blog where you discuss PR campaigns, write press releases, or analyse case studies. This isn't just for show; it demonstrates your understanding of the field and your commitment, making you a strong candidate for an apprenticeship at The Pirbright Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Relations and Communications Apprentice in Brookwood
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Communication:In public relations, communication is everything! So, in your cover letter, don’t just list your experiences – share why PR excites you. Mention any relevant school projects, volunteer work, or events where you had a chance to speak or engage with the public. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Include Relevant Experience and Skills:Highlight any internships, school clubs, or freelance gigs related to PR, marketing, or media. Make sure your CV includes skills like writing press releases, social media management, or any other PR-specific tools you’ve used, such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite. This will help us see you’ve got the right background for this apprenticeship!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:When applying for the apprenticeship at The Pirbright Institute, tailor your CV specifically to the role. Use buzzwords from the job description and match your experiences with the skills they’re looking for. Personalisation shows us that you're truly interested in this opportunity and are proactive!
Don’t Forget to Showcase Your Creativity:PR is about thinking outside the box! Include a section in your application where you briefly outline a creative PR campaign idea you’d propose for The Pirbright Institute. This gives us insight into your thinking style and how you'd approach problem-solving in a real-world setting. It could really set your application apart!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Know Your PR Tools
Familiarise yourself with the key tools and platforms used in public relations, like Cision or Meltwater. Being able to talk about how you’d leverage these tools can really impress the team at The Pirbright Institute and shows you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In the PR world, scenario-based questions are common. You may be asked how you’d handle a specific PR crisis or how you would pitch a story. Think of examples from your research or any relevant projects that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and creativity in high-pressure situations.
✨Show Your Passion for PR
As an apprentice, the hiring team at The Pirbright Institute will want to see your genuine enthusiasm for public relations. Share any relevant experiences, such as volunteering for clubs or writing for a school newsletter, and express what specifically excites you about the industry.
✨Be Ready to Showcase Your Portfolio
Even as an apprentice, you might have snippets of work to share, like press releases, articles, or collaborations. Prepare a mini-portfolio that highlights your writing ability and creative ideas. This concrete evidence can separate you from other candidates by providing a tangible glimpse into your skills.
