The UWTSD Degree Apprentice gaining new digital technology skills while working full-time
UWTSD Digital Degree Apprentice Amina Meah is studying for a part-time degree in Computing (Data and Information Systems) whilst working, getting invaluable industry experience, and earning a salary.
UWTSD is a leading university provider of Degree Apprenticeships, currently delivering degree apprenticeships for over 100 employers. We have established strong relationships with private and public sector organisations including SMEs, Local Authorities and NHS Trusts.
We understand the everyday challenges for businesses and as a result, we created in partnership with employers an Industry led Apprenticeship Programme, which when combined with daily practical on-the-job experience supports students to apply the knowledge gained directly to the workplace.
Amina said: “I have always had a passion for IT but after I finished school I never followed that passion. I worked for a few years in a leisure centre where I gained many valuable skills which I am so thankful for as I believe without these skills and those acquired at university, I would not be where I am today.
“I was still thinking about the digital world, and I had a sudden urge to look for a computing degree. I came across UWTSD and their apprenticeship degrees. Eager to learn more, I filled in a contact card, uncertain about the process and my eligibility. In response, I was informed that I was not eligible at that moment, primarily because my current role was not related to the IT industry. However, they assured me that they would keep me in mind and contact me if any relevant opportunities arose.
“To my surprise, a few months later, the same person from UWTSD reached out again. This time, they told me about a job opening at the university that would allow me to undertake a computing apprenticeship degree part-time, whilst working full-time. Without hesitation, I seized the opportunity, and now, six months later, I find myself thoroughly enjoying both my course and my work.”
Amina said she was attracted to the course as it would enable her study whilst working part-time.
She said: “I have always enjoyed working so when I was looking for a course I was always looking at part time courses as I knew this would suit me better than a full-time course. When I came across the apprenticeship degree in computing it was exactly what I was looking for. You start with a module on each pathway which will help you decide whether you are on the right pathway for yourself, but it also gave me and insight on other pathways such as software engineering and cybersecurity.
“I am currently on the data and information systems pathway, and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I am hoping that I develop my knowledge on data science and gain valuable knowledge in the field of data science.”
Amina said the course had helped her professionally and personally.
“This has given me so much knowledge and confidence within my studies as I have learnt so much already in a short amount of time. Currently I am working within the university in two departments , with the apprenticeship team and the reporting team in digital services. I am enjoying being in both departments as I am constantly learning on the job.”
Amina said it had been challenging returning to education but praised the support received from the University.
She said: “It had been a while since I had done any sort of coursework. The university has been amazing, we had Emily Hywel from the Library and Learning Resources department come in to give us a session on referencing and where to find student resources such as online sources for information we need for our assignments. After my first few assignments I found myself completing them as if it was second nature.
“The university is incredibly supportive and has many resources for students to use. The class sizes are great, and I have made many friends within my course which has been an additional form of support as we are all going through the same challenges and can help each other.
“The course has given me so much valuable knowledge that I am using day to day in my employment. I have gained even more confidence from this course as I am being supported by my apprentice liaison officer Dan throughout the whole journey. He supported me throughout the first couple of weeks where I was feeling anxious about starting something new and gave me the encouragement to continue.
“Whereas once I was not confident and did not have any people skills, I am now giving speeches and meeting new people every day and I don’t even have to think or worry about it.”
Our degree apprenticeships offer the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge, and experiences. You can take a degree apprenticeship to up-skill or re-skill if you are already in employment.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071