2026 Degree Apprenticeship Development Programme - Data Science (Leeds)

Bank of England; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK central bank is offering a degree apprenticeship in Data Science based in Leeds, starting in August 2026. This 36-month programme combines work with study for a fully funded degree while providing unique insights into the UK's central financial institution. Candidates must have five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above in subjects including English and Maths, and three A levels at BBB or above. The role promotes development in a supportive environment balancing work and education, with a focus on developing business and technical skills.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• UK residency for at least three years before start date for funding eligibility.
• Ready for full-time work by August 2026.
• No prior qualifications in a similar subject.

Responsibilities

• Participate in training sessions focusing on essential soft skills.
• Balance studies with work, allocating 20% of hours to study.

Education

Five GCSEs at grade 4/C and above including English and Maths

Three A levels at BBB or equivalent

Job description

About the programme

This programme is designed to help you get started in your career, while studying towards a fully funded degree (degree studies can take up to 48 months).

• length of contract: 36-month programme, leading to a permanent position
• start date:end of August 2026
• location: Leeds (hybrid)
• salary: £25,270 as well as our comprehensive benefits package

This could be right for you if you are:

• keen to start your career and earn a salary
• looking to study for a fully funded degree
• keen to develop your business and technical skills
• eager to gain a unique insight into the workings of the UK's central bank

Entry Requirements for the Degree Apprenticeship

For the Data Science and Digital and Technology Solutions streams, you must have:

• A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 (or C) and above, including English and Maths.
• Achieved, or be predicted to achieve, three A levels at BBB (or equivalent).

Government Funding Eligibility

To qualify for government funding for your chosen apprenticeship programme, you must:

• Have been a UK resident for at least the previous three years before the apprenticeship start date (unless exempt).
• Have completed your education and be ready for full-time work by August 2026.
• Not hold any prior qualifications in a similar subject (such as a master’s, postgraduate degree, diploma, or any other formal qualification) that overlaps with the programme you are applying for.
• If you hold a visa, it must remain valid for the full duration of your apprenticeship.

Please refer to the link below for all details outlining Apprenticeship funding set out by the Government.

What to expect

We start by giving you an introduction to the many areas of work around the Bank of England. You will get an idea of the breadth of specialist roles across the organisation. You will also receive training sessions which focus on essential soft skills.

We will enrol you in a part-time undergraduate degree at a reputable university. Your course will give you knowledge that complements the skills and invaluable on-the-job learning that you will gain while working here.

We want to help you succeed, so you will get sufficient time and support to balance your studies with work. As part of the apprenticeship, we allocate 20% of your working hours to study. You will have the support of your line manager, our Future Talent team and the University to be on hand throughout the programme.

If you are driven and keen to learn and build a career this could be a good option for you.

We are committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds.

How you could develop

If you are interested in the Bank’s Degree Apprenticeship programme, the next step is to choose between the following opportunities:

Data Science – Northeastern University

If you are someone who has a genuine interest in data science and looking to continuously seek to expand and develop your technical skills, then this programme may be ideal for you. This programme offers you the chance to develop your expertise in a supportive, real-world environment at the Bank of England. We welcome applicants who are curious, numerically minded, and committed to continuous learning.

You will apply your academic knowledge to practical challenges, gaining hands‑on experience and developing technical and analytical skills that are highly valued across the Bank. You will benefit from dedicated support, training sessions, and mentoring to help you succeed and grow in your career. If you are ready to take the next step, we encourage you to apply.

To apply, you will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (or C) (ICT GCSE is desirable) or above, including English and Maths. You will also need to have achieved or be predicted three A levels at BBB or above (equivalent to 120 UCAS points).

If you are successful, we will allocate you a role in our Financial Stability Strategy & Risk (FSSR) team, with opportunities available in Leeds.