At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the finance team, manage records, and assist with reports and projects.
- Company: Join the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, shaping the future of our region.
- Benefits: Paid apprenticeship, flexible working, 26 days annual leave, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to equality and inclusion, with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs and 2 A Levels or equivalent; good communication and IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 26403 - 27694 £ per year.
Job Introduction
The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) invites enthusiastic apprentices to join our team and help shape the future of our region.
We welcome applicants who are ready to learn, work collaboratively, and commit to completing a 2‑year apprenticeship beginning 5 October 2026.
- Fixed‑Term / Full Time
- 37 hours per week
- Contract length
- 2 years
- Location
- 70 Redcliff Street, Bristol
- Closing date
- What You'll Get
- A fully funded apprenticeship qualification
- Paid, hands‑on experience in a supportive public‑sector organisation
- Training, mentoring and opportunities to develop your career
- A welcoming workplace that values ambition, collaboration, inclusion, confidence and innovation
- The chance to make a positive impact across the West of England
Key Responsibilities
- Handle and resolve queries in a timely manner through effective communication and liaising with internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintain financial and accounting records, including the timely collation of data.
- Assist in the production of monthly management accounts and provide accurate information and reports to managers.
- Support the finance team with ad‑hoc project work, month‑end and year‑end activities.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across finance processes.
- Build a close working relationship with finance team members and acquire a working knowledge of their roles.
- Assist in identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance the finance department.
Qualifications
- 5 GCSEs, including English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above)
- Minimum 2 A Levels or equivalent qualifications with predicted grades of Grade C or above, or the equivalent qualification.
- Good communication and basic IT skills (Microsoft Office or equivalent)
- Good organisational and time‑management skills, with a reliable and professional approach
- A positive attitude, curiosity and a willingness to learn and develop
- Capacity to work collaboratively, showing resilience, enthusiasm and a commitment to delivering your best work
- Right to work in the UK and meet the government's apprenticeship funding eligibility requirements.
Benefits
- Annual leave: 26 days plus bank holidays; rising to 31 days after 5 years of continuous service. Option to increase leave with our purchase scheme.
- Two days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Flexible, family‑friendly and hybrid working options – typically 2 or 3 days in the office each week.
- Reduced bus fare travel across the West of England.
- Salary
The annual salary for this role is £26,403 – £27,694, PTE, and will be pro‑rata for part‑time.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As a founding Member of the West of England Good Employment Charter and Accredited Living Wage Employer, we are committed to creating a diverse environment where all employees can thrive.
We welcome applications from under‑represented groups without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or citizenship status.
We provide interview questions to all shortlisted candidates in advance, or on request, to ensure everyone can demonstrate their skills, knowledge and experience fully under the Equality Act 2010.
We offer reasonable adjustments for applicants with accessibility needs or disabilities. Please contact our Resourcing Team at for support.
Artificial Intelligence
While we recognise that some applicants may use AI tools, these should support your writing rather than replace your own voice.
AI can be a helpful aid, but personal insight and individuality are paramount to us.
Contact and Application
We do not engage with recruitment agencies for this role.
CVs received via agencies are considered unsolicited and remain the property of the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
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Apprentice - Finance in Bristol employer: West of England Combined Authorities
The West of England Combined Authorities is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values professionalism and attention to detail. With benefits such as 26 days of annual leave, a flexible working environment, and a generous pension scheme, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally in this dynamic role that plays a crucial part in local governance.
Contact Details:
West of England Combined Authorities Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice - Finance in Bristol
✨Get Involved with Campus Recruitment Events
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Join organisations like the Institute of Chartered Accountants or the Chartered Institute of Banking. These memberships can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities, plus, they often have dedicated sections for apprenticeships and early-career roles that can point us in the right direction.
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We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice - Finance in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Maths Skills:In the banking and financial services sector, being good with numbers is a must! Make sure to highlight any relevant maths qualifications or experience in your application, as well as any projects or coursework that demonstrate your analytical skills.
Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn:As this is an apprenticeship, companies like West of England Combined Authorities want to see your enthusiasm for the industry and your eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, chat about why you’re interested in banking and any specific areas you’re excited to explore. Show them that you’re ready to soak up knowledge like a sponge!
Highlight Relevant Experience (Even If It's Limited):Whether it's a part-time job, volunteer experience, or even a school project, mention any relevant experience related to banking or finance. This could include customer service roles or any projects where you handled budgeting. We’re all about showing how you can apply your skills, even if they’re from unconventional backgrounds.
Tailor Your CV for Impact:Make sure your CV isn’t just a list of duties. Tailor it to reflect skills that appeal to financial services, like attention to detail and communication skills. Don’t forget to keep it clear and concise, showing how you’re a perfect fit for the apprenticeship at West of England Combined Authorities!
How to prepare for a job interview at West of England Combined Authorities
✨Brush Up on Financial Principles
Since you're diving into the banking and financial sector with an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with key concepts like interest rates, investment strategies, and basic financial accounting. Make sure you can share your understanding of these principles during the interview, as they'll likely pop up in practical scenarios.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
In the world of banking, interviewers love to throw real-world scenarios at you. Prepare for questions that ask how you'd handle customer inquiries or solve financial challenges. Practising these types of situational responses can really showcase your problem-solving skills and customer service abilities, both of which are essential in this field.
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
As an apprenticeship candidate, what's going to set you apart is your motivation to learn and grow in the role. Be sure to express your excitement about entering the banking world and highlight any steps you've already taken to educate yourself, whether through courses, workshops, or relevant hobbies.
✨Prepare Your Questions About Company Culture
When interviewing with West of England Combined Authorities, don’t shy away from asking about their company culture and training programmes for apprentices. This shows that you're not only focused on the role but also interested in how you'll fit within the team, which is a major factor for your future success in the apprenticeship.
