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Summary

Start your career in business - no need for full-time university.

We’re offering an exciting opportunity for A-level students to launch a professional career in commercial, procurement, and supplier management.

Annual wage

£24,000 a year
Minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Salary will be discussed further at Interview


Training course

Procurement and supply chain practitioner (level 4)


Hours

You will work Monday - Friday, exact hours to be agreed between the apprentice and their manager.
37 hours a week


Possible start date

Monday 07 September


Duration

2 Years


Positions available

1


Work

As an apprentice, you’ll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You’ll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.

What you’ll do at work

You’ll play a key role in how we work with both customers and suppliers, helping the organisation make smart, informed commercial decisions.

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Engaging with internal teams and customers to understand requirements
  • Supporting procurement activities (researching suppliers, helping with sourcing)
  • Assisting with contracts and managing supplier relationships
  • Supporting and learning negotiation with suppliers and customers to achieve the best commercial outcomes
  • Helping evaluate options and support commercial decision-making
  • Learning how to identify risks and ensure legal and commercial compliance
  • Developing strong attention to detail when working with data, contracts, and processes

This is a varied role with exposure to both customer interaction and supply chain management, giving you a well-rounded commercial foundation.

Who is this for?

This opportunity is ideal for students who:

  • Are curious about business, aviation, or technology-led organisations
  • Want to earn while they learn
  • Enjoy working with people and solving problems
  • Have a strong eye for detail and take pride in their work
  • Are ready to take the first step into a professional career

Why choose an apprenticeship?

✔ No student debt
✔ Gain real experience employers’ value
✔ Build confidence in a professional environment
✔ Progress faster into your career

Where you’ll work

220 Bristol Business Park
The Close
Bristol
BS16 1FJ


Training

An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.

College or training organisation

South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

Your training course

Procurement and supply chain practitioner (level 4)
Course content (opens in new tab)

Your training plan

You learning provider will be SGS College, and you will attend the Filton Campus on a day release basis.


Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

  • 5 (grade 5 and above)

GCSE in:

  • Maths (grade 5 and above)

A Level in:

  • Business (grade A-C)
Desirable qualifications

A Level in:

  • Economics (grade A-C)

A Level in:

  • Economics (grade A-C)

A Level in:

  • Maths (grade A-C)
Skills
  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Team working
  • Willingness to learn
Other requirements

You don’t need work experience - we’re interested in your potential.

You may already have strengths such as:

🤝 Teamwork - group projects, sports, or volunteering
💬 Communication - presentations, discussions, working with others
🧠 Problem-solving - coursework, challenges, logical thinking
⏱️ Organisation - managing deadlines and priorities
🔍 Attention to detail - accuracy in work and focus on getting things right
🌱 Willingness to learn - curiosity and a positive attitude
And you will love technology and a desire to use it to improve our future!!


About this company

Why Ascent?

Ascent is a exciting business at the heart of advanced training solutions. We deliver the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) and work across aircraft, simulators, and cutting-edge technology — combining aviation, innovation, and operational delivery.

This means you’ll be part of a business where commercial decisions truly matter, supporting complex programmes and high-value partnerships.


After this apprenticeship

What you’ll gain:

  • A recognised Level 4 qualification (equivalent to first year of university)
  • Hands-on experience in a unique, high-profile business
  • Skills in negotiation, commercial thinking, and relationship management
  • Exposure to both customers and suppliers

A pathway into careers such as:

  • Commercial Officer
  • Procurement Specialist
  • Business or Project roles

Data source: Find an apprenticeship (GOV.UK) | last update:

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