At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure compliance for the Level 3 Operational Firefighter apprenticeship from recruitment to achievement.
- Company: Join West Midlands Fire Service, a supportive and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Flexible working, free gym, parking, and enhanced family leave.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in apprenticeship compliance while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality assurance and knowledge of DfE/DWP funding rules required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is seeking a detail-oriented Apprenticeships Compliance Officer. You will ensure our Level 3 Operational Firefighter apprenticeship provision meets all Department for Education (DfE) and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) funding rules. You will manage compliance across the entire apprentice journey - from recruitment and onboarding, to gateway, end-point assessment (EPA), and final achievement.
What we're looking for:
- Experience in an Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) or similar quality-focused role, within apprenticeships or further education.
- A teaching or IQA qualification.
- Proven experience managing Individualised Learner Record (ILR) data submissions and using e-portfolio systems.
- Expert knowledge of DfE/DWP apprenticeship funding rules and Ofsted regulatory frameworks.
- Proven track record of auditing and identifying compliance risks, whilst driving improvements.
- Excellent communication skills to deliver briefings on policy changes and collaborate effectively with internal delivery teams and external stakeholders.
Key responsibilities:
- Regulatory oversight: maintain deep knowledge of DfE/DWP funding rules, Ofsted requirements, and the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework.
- Framework management: lead an effective apprenticeship compliance framework for the Level 3 Operational Firefighter programme.
- Evidence and auditing: oversee accurate evidence collection, including eligibility checks, individual training plans (ITPs), progress reviews, and off-the-job (OTJ) hours.
- Data integrity: manage ILR data entry, validation, and submission, alongside tracking via the e-portfolio system.
- Quality assurance: support observation of practice, standardisation, moderation, and financial claim accuracy alongside finance colleagues.
- Audit readiness: ensure all evidence is robust and accessible, to support inspections, audits, and external reviews.
- Reporting and advice: analyse performance data to produce management reports, and act as the lead advisor on compliance for managers, trainers, and assessors.
Diversity: West Midlands Fire Service prides itself on being an inclusive employer and we welcome applications from all eligible candidates. However, as women and Black and minority ethnic employees are currently under-represented in our service, we particularly encourage applications from these groups. WMFS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect the same of every staff member. Successful candidates will be subject to necessary pre-employment checks, including - where applicable - relevant level Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, qualifications, medical clearance, identity and right to work. All applicants will be required to provide two suitable references.
We offer a friendly working environment and benefits including:
- Flexible and agile working arrangements.
- On-site free gym facilities.
- Free parking.
- Access to an in-house occupational health facility, including occupational health and fitness advisors, sports therapists, physiotherapists, cognitive behavioural therapy practitioners and counsellors.
- Enhanced family leave benefits, including 52 weeks fully paid maternity and adoption leave.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- ‘Blue light’ discounts across many retailers through partner schemes.
- Sports and Welfare scheme (for a small fee) – with access to discounted products and services.
If you have any questions about the role, or would like an informal discussion, please contact Sillina Griffiths by email at sillina.griffiths@wmfs.net.
Apprenticeship Compliance Officer in Birmingham employer: WMFS
West Midlands Fire Service is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong focus on community safety and well-being, the organisation provides excellent benefits such as enhanced family leave, free gym facilities, and agile working arrangements, all while fostering professional growth through training and development opportunities. Located in Birmingham, WMFS is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of its three million residents, making it a meaningful place to work for those passionate about public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprenticeship Compliance Officer in Birmingham
✨Dive into Compliance Communities
Get yourself connected with local and online compliance communities, like the Association of Compliance Professionals. These spaces often host events and can provide insider info on apprenticeships in the field. Plus, networking with others in compliance can lead to job leads you wouldn't find on your own.
✨Be Present at Compliance Events
Check out seminars and workshops focused on compliance and risk management. These events are prime for meeting industry professionals and sometimes even hosting companies like WMFS. Being there puts you on the radar of potential recruiters who might be looking for passionate apprentices.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge
Create a blog or a social media profile where you share insights on compliance regulations and risk management trends. This will not only help you learn but also show potential employers that you’re genuinely interested in the field. Remember, when you apply to WMFS, having a visible online presence could really set you apart.
✨Utilise Your School’s Resources
Don’t forget to tap into your school's career services! They often have connections with companies looking for apprentices, including WMFS. Plus, they'll help you polish up your interviewing skills and give you tips on how to stand out while searching for that perfect apprenticeship.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprenticeship Compliance Officer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Interest in Compliance:In your cover letter, make sure to express why compliance and risk management excites you. Talk about any relevant coursework or projects that sparked your interest in this field—this can showcase your passion and motivation to learn more during your apprenticeship at WMFS.
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:Compliance roles need sharp analytical skills, so in your CV, emphasise any relevant experience you have with data analysis, problem-solving, or even administrative tasks. If you've tackled projects that required careful attention to detail or risk evaluation, shout about them!
Tailor Your CV Format:For an apprenticeship, a clean and straightforward CV works wonders. Focus on your education, any related internships or positions, and your skills. Make sure to include relevant certifications if you have them, like a basic understanding of legal frameworks or compliance regulations.
Let Your Personality Shine Through:Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine in your application! Apprenticeships are about growth—show us your eagerness to learn and adapt in a compliance-role at WMFS. Use your cover letter to give a bit of background on yourself and what truly drives you in terms of compliance and risk.
How to prepare for a job interview at WMFS
✨Know Your Regulations!
When prepping for an apprenticeship in compliance and risk, get familiar with the key regulations relevant to the industry. Brush up on concepts like GDPR or anti-money laundering—you might be asked to demonstrate your understanding of how these regulations impact businesses (and you'd want to impress WMFS!).
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
In this field, your ability to analyse data and spot potential risks is crucial. Practise with real-world examples of risk assessments and think about how you would approach certain scenarios. Be ready to discuss your thought process during the interview—this will show WMFS you have the analytical mindset they’re after!
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, the focus is on your potential and eagerness to develop. Be prepared to talk about specific instances where you've taken the initiative to learn something new, whether it’s related to compliance or not. WMFS will appreciate your proactive approach to personal growth.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that simulate real compliance challenges. Get comfortable thinking on your feet and developing your reasoning for potential solutions. For example, what would you do if you discovered a compliance breach? This will help show your problem-solving skills to WMFS.
