Why did you choose a Degree Apprenticeship?

I discovered Degree Apprenticeships through my manager, who found the Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship through the Government website. My manager talked me through the programme and what was involved. It sounded exciting as it covered a range of different technical skills and business topics.  After our discussion, my manager offered me the opportunity to apply.

As a working parent with a family to take care of, I had some reservations about applying. At the time, I did not know if I could commit myself to completing a degree. However, I gave it some thought and considered the benefits that the Degree Apprenticeship would give me in the long term, and what potential career path I could take after graduating. For me, the benefits outweighed the doubts I had, and I applied.

Looking back over your time (so far), how have you found the whole experience?

I have found that adapting my life to get a good balance between work, family and study has been one of the biggest challenges so far. However, I have found that these things have become easier to manage with time and perseverance.

One of the best learning experiences so far has been to be able to learn practical skills and knowledge that I can apply in my job.

My typical working day includes my core responsibility to support the different teams within my organisation. I advise, troubleshoot, and ensure that my organisation has access to suitable equipment and software. I also have IT initiatives to upgrade and introduce new processes. I am involved with different digital projects that will enhance my organisations’ capability to offer a better quality of service to its clients. Some projects that I am currently managing/co-managing are:

• The launch of the organisation’s first app
• The redesign of the organisation’s website

How are you hoping a Degree Apprenticeship will support your career progression?

I am still thinking about whether to enrol on the Digital and Technology Solutions Masters Degree Apprenticeship course at Manchester Met, but either way, I am hoping that my current apprenticeship will take me to the next level in my career progression. For me, this would be a role, where I can be creative and use the technical skills I have learned.  

What impact has your Degree Apprenticeship had in the organisation?

My Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship has allowed me to take on a new role as Apprentice IT Manager. This role has permitted me to build an IT department from scratch and has helped me establish myself as a key member of my organisation. In addition, I have also had the opportunity to get involved in many different types of projects in my organisation, such as project managing the organisation’s first app.

Would you recommend a Degree Apprenticeship?

I would say to just do it! My Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship has allowed me to experience new things and explore new technologies and software. If anyone wants to get back into education and has a family and financial commitments to think of, then a Degree Apprenticeship is the perfect option to be able to learn and qualify on the job.

Do you have any advice for future Degree Apprentices?

After almost completing my third year on the Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship programme, some of the most valuable advice that I would give is to start assignments early! From a personal point of view, I have found that this really helps me enter the right mindset and become engaged with what is required.

what special achievements have you been recognised for during your degree apprenticeship?

In February 2021, I won the ‘Tech Industry Gold Degree Apprenticeship Award’ for ‘Special Achievement’. I received this award in recognition of creating an IT department for my organisation, and because of my passion and bravery for taking on a new role whilst being enrolled on the Degree Apprenticeship programme.

Read more about Zoe being recognised at the Tech Partner Awards here.

My Manager says…

“Zoe had reservations about enrolling on the Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship programme at first. However, her passion and personal bravery helped her make the leap of faith she needed, and she has not looked back. I believe that Zoe exemplifies everything that is special in an apprentice learning journey – and has delivered an unexpected level of value to a growing business in a very special way.”

Fiona Tordoff – CEO
Institution of Railway Operators