The Four Specialist Pathways
All apprentices begin with core modules in Year 1, covering SDLC and Project Management, Computer Programming (using Javascript/Python), Database Systems, and Introduction to Cloud Computing. The specialisation begins in Year 2, creating a clear focus for their technical development:
1. Data Analyst
This pathway develops experts in transforming raw data into actionable business intelligence, using modern data science tools and techniques.
| Year 2 Focus | Year 3 Focus |
| Data Analytics with Python and Data Visualisation and Statistics. Apprentices master core data science libraries (Numpy, pandas, Scikit-learn) to locate, manipulate, and analyse data, coupled with best practices for creating meaningful visualisations. | Machine Learning and Big Data Analytics. The focus shifts to automated data analysis, implementing machine learning techniques for predictive analytics, and extracting insights from large, unstructured datasets (Big Data). |
2. Tech Consultant
Apprentices on this pathway are trained to bridge the gap between technology and business, focusing on strategy, innovation, and risk management.
| Year 2 Focus | Year 3 Focus |
| Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Business Risk Analysis. Apprentices develop the skills for planning and launching ventures, managing innovation, and examining the tools and techniques used to identify, measure, and manage significant Business Risks (e.g., Financial Risk, Entrepreneurial Risk). | Emerging Technologies in Business and Technology Entrepreneurship in Practice. The focus is on understanding the integration and impact of new technologies and developing the practical skills, including knowledge of IP law, required for commercialising and marketing technological innovation. |
3. Software Engineer
This pathway creates professionals who can design, build, and deploy complex, scalable systems. It focuses heavily on advanced coding practices and system architecture.
| Year 2 Focus | Year 3 Focus |
| Applied Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Programming & Algorithmic Design. This includes exploring a range of programming paradigms, complex data structures (like Heaps and Graphs), and applying principles of AI and machine learning. | Enterprise Software Engineering and Software Quality Assurance. Apprentices learn to design, implement, and maintain non-trivial enterprise systems, focusing on Microservices, Scalability, DevOps, and comprehensive testing strategies (SQA). |
4. Cyber Security Specialist
This pathway builds highly-skilled individuals capable of protecting digital assets, analysing threats, and testing system resilience.
| Year 2 Focus | Year 3 Focus |
| Cyber Security in Society and Cyber Security Analytics. Core learning covers the CIA model (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), Risk Assessment, and analysing data related to threats using tools like SIEM systems (e.g., Splunk) and network traffic analysis. | Cyber Security Management and Cyber Security Penetration Testing. Apprentices learn to develop and implement a security programme within an organisation, covering management frameworks (e.g., GDPR, NIS Directive), and gain practical, ethical knowledge in penetration testing to identify and exploit system vulnerabilities. |