Public Engagement Business Administrator Apprentice

Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)

Contract Type:
Fixed-Term, 24 months

Hours:

Full-time, 37 hours

Location:

Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX

Closing Date:
Sunday, 2nd February 2026

Interview Date:
Feb 2026 / Mar 2026

Start Date:

September 2026

We are looking for an enthusiastic person to join our friendly Public Engagement Team of six people based at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire. The National Laboratories Public Engagement Group, composed of 15 team members across three sites, supports STFC to inspire and excite the public about our science and technology through events and activities. A key part of this is involving STFC staff in these events to give insight into their work.

We are looking for someone to support us in coordinating early career staff involvement with public engagement events.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real‑world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting‑edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.

You’ll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check‑ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. You will also have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support, helping you feel confident and prepared for new challenges.

The National Labs Public Engagement Group helps people across the UK discover and connect with science and technology in meaningful ways. We create exciting opportunities—from hands‑on events and school visits to national campaigns and partnerships—that showcase the incredible research happening  work focuses on making science accessible to all, especially young people and communities who may not have many opportunities to get involved.

Whether it’s supporting our staff to build confidence in public engagement or working with local groups to create inspiring activities together, we’re passionate about making STEM relevant, inclusive and fun.

• Business Administrator – Business administrator / Skills England
• Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship – Business Administration – Abingdon & Witney College

Objectives covered:

• Understands organisational purpose, activities, aims, values, vision for the future, resources and the way that the political/economic environment affects the organisation.
• Knows organisational structure and demonstrates understanding of how their work benefits the organisation. Knows how they fit within their team and recognises how their skills can help them to progress their career.
• Has a practical knowledge of managing stakeholders and their differing relationships to an organisation. This includes internal and external customers, clients and/or suppliers. Liaises with internal/external customers, suppliers or stakeholders from inside or outside the UK. Engages and fosters relationships with suppliers and partner organisations.
• Understands laws and regulations that apply to their role including data protection, health & safety, compliance etc. Supports the company in applying the regulations.
• Understands the organisation's internal policies and key business policies relating to sector.
• Understands the applicability of business principles such as managing change, business finances and project management.

As part of your Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, you will engage in structured professional development and training through a combination of online learning and 10 days of in‑person teaching at Abingdon & Witney College, scheduled between September and December. You will complete 12 formal assessments and receive dedicated support to develop the required skills and behaviours for your apprenticeship. This will include building a comprehensive portfolio of…