Procurement Apprentice

WATERTON ACADEMY TRUST

Apprenticeship Level 3
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About the Role

To provide support to the Procurement manager and Finance Team in delivering efficient and effective procurement services across the Trust. The role will offer hands-on experience in public sector procurement processes, supplier management, and value-for-money initiatives while completing a formal apprenticeship qualification.

Procurement Support

  • Assist with the preparation of purchase orders and procurement documentation.
  • Support the procurement manager in gathering quotations and supplier information.
  • Help maintain the central contracts register, tracking renewal and expiry dates.

Supplier and Contract Administration

  • Assist with onboarding new suppliers and maintaining accurate supplier records.
  • Ensure compliance with procurement procedures when engaging suppliers.
  • Help track performance of key suppliers and support feedback processes.

Procurement Systems and Reporting

  • Learn to use financial and procurement software to raise and track orders.
  • Support data entry and assist with producing basic reports (e.g. spend analysis).
  • Help update procurement trackers, logs, and dashboards as required.

Tendering and Compliance

  • Assist with low-value procurement exercises by compiling documentation and quotes.
  • Support adherence to Trust procurement policies and national frameworks.
  • Observe and learn about procurement legislation (e.g. Procurement Act 2023) and internal controls.

Communication and Collaboration

  • Liaise with school-based staff to support procurement queries or routine purchases.
  • Attend meetings with suppliers or internal departments as required, taking notes or preparing summaries.
  • Help promote best value principles and sustainability in purchasing decisions.

Learning and Development

  • Complete assigned apprenticeship training and tasks within agreed timeframes.
  • Take part in professional development activities and shadow senior procurement staff.
  • Keep up to date with developments in public sector procurement.
Satisfactory DBS check is required.

This role is designed to be a long-term career pathway into public sector procurement. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, the candidate will have the opportunity to progress within the Trust. The Trust is committed to supporting professional development, including progression to a Level 4 or 5 CIPS qualification, with a view to developing a fully qualified procurement professional.

About the Training

Delivery to be completed on site and off the job training either at Barnsley College or your place of work. Student to complete a Business Administrator Level 3 Apprenticeship. 

About the Employer

Waterton Academy Trust is a thriving and values-led partnership of schools committed to giving every child the best possible start in life. We work across two key regions - Wakefield and Barnsley - and are proud to be seen as a trusted and collaborative presence within the wider education system.

Skills Required

  • Communication skills
  • IT skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Customer care skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Administrative skills
  • Number skills
  • Team working
  • Initiative

Training Provider

BARNSLEY COLLEGE

Course/Training

Business administrator (level 3)

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