At the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA), we've teamed up with the University of South Wales (USW) to offer an innovative new degree apprenticeship. Here, we explain more about the course so far.
We welcomed our first digital apprentices in September – Zoe Curry, Roisin Harris and Dominik Pawlowski.
The 3 are studying towards a BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions apprenticeship course.
The four-and-a-half-year course is fully funded by Welsh Government. The approach blends online learning and face-to-face teaching at USW’s Pontypridd campus while also offering hands-on time working with us.
What do the apprentices think so far?
The course started with an intensive 6-week bootcamp, helping the apprentices to develop essential programming skills. They have also learnt the basics of devolved taxes with us during that time.
Zoe, from Barry, a Photojournalism graduate, said: "This is a brilliant opportunity to use my creativity in a new way".
Roisin, from Caerphilly, previously worked at HMRC. She said: "This apprenticeship is an ideal way to get a degree while earning a wage".
Dominik, from Ebbw Vale, studied Computing before this opportunity. He said: "I’m happy to use my computing skills in a real business environment".
Why is this partnership important?
Dr Francis Cowe, Director of FE Partnerships and Degree Apprenticeship at USW, said:
This is a great opportunity for the apprentices to get into a specialist technology area. The partnership with the WRA, with support of Welsh Government, will offer all 3 the chance to gain job-ready skills in a highly attractive and specialist career path.
Anthony Pritchard, Head of Digital and Technology at the WRA, said:
We’ve recruited our first digital apprentices to grow our digital capabilities and to offer local jobs. None of our apprentices have worked in digital roles before. But they each have the potential to become digital specialists. We’re pleased to have them with us.
If you’re interested in finding out more about our digital work, please email our Head of Digital and Technology: Anthony.Pritchard@wra.gov.wales. Or you can find out more about apprenticeships on the USW website.