Apprentice Business Administrator

Islington Council; Greater London; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government organization based in Greater London is seeking a Business Administration Apprentice. This position offers hands-on experience in an office setting while you work towards a Level 3 qualification. Responsibilities include supporting administrative tasks, maintaining payroll systems, and acting as a point of contact for queries. The role promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion within the workforce, providing a supportive environment for all. Additional benefits include flexible working arrangements and opportunities for personal development.

Benefits

Up to 31 days leave per year

Flexible working arrangements

Learning and development opportunities

London Living Wage commitment

Excellent pension scheme

Cycle to Work scheme

Local discounts

Qualifications

• Aged 16 or above.
• Islington resident, care leaver, or school leaver within the last 12 months.
• No qualification at a similar level or above in this apprenticeship subject.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cleaning Services Support Manager with administrative tasks.
• Maintain and update payroll systems and departmental reports.
• Prepare monthly newsletters and collate statistical information.

Skills

Proactive attitude

Administrative skills

Communication skills

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive individual to join our team as a Business Administration Apprentice. This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience within a professional office environment while working towards a recognised qualification.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Cleaning Services Support Manager with a wide range of administrative tasks to ensure the efficient operation of the Building Cleaning Department.
• Maintain and update payroll systems, overtime records, absence logs, and various departmental reports including operational, agency usage, and health & safety data.
• Prepare monthly newsletters, collate statistical information and use computer systems to input and extract relevant data for reporting purposes.
• Provide elevated support to management, uphold filing systems and ensure compliance with health and safety policies.
• Act as a point of contact for cleaning operatives, handling queries related to payroll, annual leave, and scheduling for meetings, training, and DBS renewals.

Qualifications

• Aged 16 or above.
• Islington resident, care leaver, or school leaver within the last 12 months.
• No qualification at a similar level or above in this apprenticeship subject.
• No extensive skills or experience in this apprenticeship subject.
• Pass the course screening assessments.

Training & Development

Apprenticeship start date: January 2026. Complete a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship qualification. Have the opportunity to study Maths and English if you have not already achieved a GCSE or Level 2 equivalent. Participate in the Council’s apprenticeship network and various development activities. Have access to a buddy/mentor.

Benefits

• Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
• A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
• Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
• Competitive pay and a commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
• Excellent local government pension scheme.
• Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more!

Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel they belong and can safely express their thoughts, ideas, and challenges, without fear of judgement or discrimination.
We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, including but not limited to race, disability, sexual orientation, sex, religion and belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, and maternity. Any incidents of discrimination will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all colleagues.
We use data to identify and address disparities, ensuring that our policies and practices are transparent and impactful in promoting a diverse representation of backgrounds and perspectives at all levels of the organisation. We look at inequality through an intersectional lens, recognising that different aspects of someone’s identity can combine to create unique experiences of discrimination and disadvantage.
We know that advancing diversity and inclusion is a continuous journey, and we must listen to our colleagues and learn where we can further improve. We work closely with our Colleague Forums and Trade Unions, supported by active allies from our Corporate Management Team, to monitor and evaluate our practices, identify barriers, and empower colleagues to promote equality and inclusion in the workplace.
Every one of us has a role to play in making Islington Council a truly inclusive workplace. By living out our CARE (collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering) values every day and embedding the principles of equality, equity, diversity, and inclusion in our work, we can all actively contribute to empowering people and creating a more equal Islington.

Pre‑Employment Checks

• Proof of address
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational Health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Disability Confident Scheme

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.

Contact

• Mary Ann Taylor - [e-mail]
• Roseline Olasupo - [e-mail]