QA Apprenticeships has unveiled the UK’s first work-based degree programme for IT apprentices.
Working in collaboration with The University of Roehampton and The Tech Partnership, QA Apprenticeships has constructed a BSc Digital and Technology Solutions degree that addresses the needs of employers by offering three flexible specialisms - network engineering, software engineering, and data analytics.
Each apprentice receives one-to-one technical skills coaching in the workplace, while the formal taught content is delivered through a blended learning approach of multimedia, practical exercises and intensive workshops. The programme includes modules on subjects such as big data, DevOps, The Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud technologies and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).
To help plug the UK technology skills gap, the government announced degree apprenticeships earlier this year as a way of bringing together the best of higher and vocational education. Under the new model, the government funds most of the training, which is topped up by employers, who are eligible for performance-based rewards throughout the programme.