Bethany Pass - Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
"When I finished my A-Levels I was unsure what I wanted to do as a career and so instead of going to university I decided to jump straight into full-time work. However, after a few years working, the pandemic gave me some time to stop and think about where I wanted to go next and I decided I really wanted to work in tech.
"I chose an apprenticeship as it opened a door for me into a sector where I didn’t have any prior experience or knowledge. I always wanted to further my education but could never see myself gong to university full-time, so an apprenticeship was the perfect way to get the best of both worlds. I can continue to develop professionally by working in a tech business while upskilling myself at university as part of the apprenticeship."
I would 100% recommend a higher/degree apprenticeship as it gives you the opportunity to gain a qualification in a subject you are passionate about while also getting real world experience working in industry.
Why did you choose to study at NTU? What stands out about NTU?
"NTU is quite a local university to me and a lot of people I know studied there. I had always heard really great things from them about the university and the resources it has to offer. When I looked around the campus it had a welcoming feel and loads of facilities to offer. There are also some great social and sports clubs on offer at NTU and events at the student union so even though I’m not a full-time student I can still feel part of the student community.
"I think the culture and values that NTU really stand out for me! All the staff and students are really welcoming and want to support you to succeed. The course staff always go the extra mile to help you where they can which makes the whole university experience a lot easier and feel a lot more personal."
How do you believe this apprenticeship will affect both your current job role and future career?
"I strongly believe without the opportunity this apprenticeship has given me I wouldn’t be in the role I am today. It allowed me to enter a new industry and gain the skills I needed to kick start my career. In my current role the apprenticeship has really motivated me to push myself and always seek new challenges in the workplace so I can apply what I’m learning and even share some of that learning with my colleagues.
"I think in the future being able to say that I have four years’ experience working in the industry alongside the qualification I will gain from my apprenticeship will give me a huge advantage when applying for future roles. There are so many skills that I have gained through the apprenticeship that I wouldn’t have got from just doing a university course full-time."
What do you think of the facilities available at NTU? This includes online resources.
"The NTU NOW online learning room is an amazing resource. It allows me to revisit content like lecture slides and even recordings when I finish my study block. I find this especially helpful when it comes to doing my coursework as I can look back over topics and refresh my memory. The Clifton campus where I study has some great facilities.
"There are plenty of different study spaces to suit your mood or preferences. For example, you could grab a coffee in the student union costa or head to the library for a more quiet study session. The library also provides great resources and sessions to support you throughout your time at university. I attended a report writing session they held in my first term, and it helped me so much when it came to doing my first coursework."
What advice would you give to someone considering a higher/degree apprenticeship?
"I would 100% recommend a higher/degree apprenticeship as it gives you the opportunity to gain a qualification in a subject you are passionate about while also getting real world experience working in industry. You can directly apply what you are learning and provide fresh ideas and viewpoints in your role. It is also a great way to enter a new sector or kick start your career as you are getting the training you need to be successful. You also get to learn so much from your workplace colleagues which you wouldn’t get studying at university full-time. If you are considering a degree apprenticeship, I would say go for it! And take hold of every opportunity you are offered!"
To learn more about our apprenticeship courses, please contact apprenticeships@ntu.ac.uk.