Digital degree apprenticeships make a difference at Velindre

14 February 2024

Apprenticeships are an increasingly effective way for organisations to develop a motivated and skilled workforce, while also allowing talented employees to reach their potential by gaining both experience and qualifications.

At Velindre University NHS Trust, our organisation and our employees are reaping the rewards from apprenticeships. Digital Degree Apprenticeships are helping us to upskill existing staff, improving their knowledge to bring new perspectives and future-ready skills to the workplace.

The Degree Apprenticeship Programme at the University of Wales Trinity St David is highly successful. Through partnerships with organisations like Velindre, the programme offers high quality and fully funded training to anyone over the age of 18. The blend of access to academic and workplace learning presents a pathway for a rewarding career.

Mark Williams is a Senior Digital Specialist at Velindre and he’s also a final year student in Cyber Security and Networking at the University of Wales Trinity St David. Through a Welsh Government-backed scheme, Mark has been able to work full-time and dedicate a day each week to attend university. He said:

“I have gained knowledge of real-world digital challenges, which has helped me to apply what I've learned in the classroom directly to my role at Velindre Cancer Centre. This practical application of knowledge has not only accelerated my learning but also significantly contributed to the centre’s digital operations, demonstrating the mutual benefits of such a collaborative educational approach.

“I cannot stress enough the immense value this scheme offers for individuals seeking to advance their careers while continuing their education, this programme presents an ideal platform.”

The financial support offered through apprenticeship schemes help to overcome barriers to education. They enable apprentices to receive a full-time salary and have their university fees covered, easing the economic burden often associated with higher education.

Sam Jones is another Velindre apprentice and he has combined studies of Cloud Computing with his role as a Robotic Process Automation Developer. Sam credits his apprenticeship with opening doors in his professional life by helping him to gain industry-recognised qualifications. He said:

“The Digital Degree Apprenticeship program at University of Wales Trinity St David has been meticulously designed to balance university studies with hands-on workplace learning. This approach ensures that what we learn is not just theoretical knowledge but skills that are immediately applicable in our jobs.

“A great aspect of this program is its alignment with industry standards. Accredited by the British Computer Society and offering pathways to Chartered IT Professional Status, the apprenticeship ensures that we are not just gaining a degree but also recognition in the professional world.

“The real-world impact of these programs is evident. The apprenticeship encourages us to apply our within our organisations. For instance, at Velindre, I've been able to apply these skills in real word workplace scenarios. This practical application of skills not only benefits our employers but also contributes significantly to our personal and professional growth.”

We care deeply about the communities we serve and see clearly the difference that digital technology and insight can make in supporting us to continually improve the quality, safety, experience and outcomes of the services we provide. The importance of digital technology, digital services, good information and insight in delivering safe, high quality services and our long-term goals cannot be overstated. Digital apprenticeships will play a key part in our plans and there will be opportunities for new digital apprenticeships with Velindre from September 2024 as we further develop our partnership with University of Wales Trinity St David.

Bridget Moseley, Head of University of Wales Trinity St David’s Apprenticeship Unit, added:

“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.”

Visit this website for more information on digital degree apprenticeships.