How degree apprenticeships at UWTSD are driving a knowledge-based skills economy

2 February 2023

Daniel Watts chose to study a Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) because he wanted to develop the skills and knowledge needed to further his career at Sony Europe B.V. UK Technology Centre.

Daniel is currently in his first year and has already been promoted to his current role as an automation engineer.

“Being able to learn from lecturers who have a wealth of industry knowledge which they share using real world examples that students can relate to, also attracted me,” he said.

“With my work experience and with the assistance of the degree apprenticeship, I’ve been able to move into a new, design-based role where I now manage my own projects and design new test and automated equipment for in production.”

Daniel’s story is just one of many the University is sharing as part of Apprenticeship Week, which celebrates the value apprentices bring to employers and learners across Wales.

UWTSD has a highly successful Degree Apprenticeship Programme, built in partnership with Welsh businesses, providing great quality, the right skills pathways, and the right level of support to help achieve economic durability.

All employers in Wales, regardless of size and sector can access and engage in the Apprenticeship Programme which offers high quality, fully funded training to anyone over the age of 16 to drive a knowledge, skills-based economy: allowing employers and their employees to achieve their full potential.

Apprentices spend 20% of their work time on off-the-job training; this includes regular day, or block, release to university, special training days or practical workshops.

Bridget Moseley, head of UWTSD’s Apprenticeship Unit said: “By offering apprenticeships, businesses are not only able to strengthen their business with a pipeline of talent but are equipping future workforces with the right skills to ensure Wales remains competitive on a global scale.

“Working with Welsh Government and employers, we have developed our apprenticeship portfolio to meet the needs and priorities of Wales.”

Newly promoted Knowledge and Content Manager Samantha John at Digital Health Care Wales is using skills from her Digital Degree Apprenticeship at UWTSD to help shape and transform health care for patients.

She said: “The digital degree apprenticeship has provided so many opportunities for me in terms of my career. It has given me the confidence to apply for new roles within the NHS and taught me many new skills. I also feel this course has improved my confidence on a personal level.”

Rhys Treharne is an I.T Apprentice at LSN Diffusion Ltd, a progressive manufacturing SME that makes metallic brazing powders for a global market.

He said: “This apprenticeship is providing me with many opportunities. It allows me to gain employment experience, earn an income and study an undergraduate course at University. The knowledge and skills acquired from my apprenticeship scheme are particularly transferable within the manufacturing industry due to the fourth industrial revolution and developments in automation.”

Deborah Rees, HR Manager at LSN Diffusion Ltd said: The knowledge and exposure Rhys has gained from his apprenticeship, has complemented his work ethic and commitment and he is on track to become a highly skilled I.T professional.”

A female student wears protective eye covers and smiles with one hand on a machine.

Faith Over, is a Continuous Improvement Lead at Eaton and is studying for a BEng in Manufacturing Systems.

She said: “When I started my role within a manufacturing facility, I often struggled to follow certain conversations. Since starting the Degree Apprenticeship Programme, attaining 87% in my first exam helped me realise I am more than capable of achieving. I am now furthering my knowledge and taking the lead in conversations that I was once anxious about even participating in.”

Samuel Jackson introduced several innovative digital solutions to the NHS Velindre Digital Services Department during his apprenticeship.

“I would absolutely recommend the Digital Degree Apprenticeship route,” he says. “I would like to see more awareness of it as an option straight from school. I do not think it is a Plan B option - in my opinion it is right up there with full time university. When I finish my apprenticeship, I will have four to five years’ experience and a degree. When you consider the experience/qualification balance, I could not advocate for it enough.”

UWTSD provides Degree Apprenticeships in :

Archaeological Specialist (L7)
Cyber Security Management
Data Science
Software Engineering
Cloud Computing
Cloud Software Development
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Embedded Electronics
Advanced Manufacturing Operations
Engineering Management
Materials Science
Manufacturing Systems Engineering
Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Ordnance Munitions and Explosives Professional (L6)

Higher Apprenticeships

Construction Management (L5)
Quantity Surveying (L5)
Ordnance Munitions and Explosives Technician (L4)
Stained Glass Craftsperson (L4)

UWTSD’s Blue Light Academy also co-delivers the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship with South Wales Police and Gwent Police. Now in its fourth year, the programme has been delivered to over 1200 new police officers.