Young Students Impress Industry Experts with New IT Skills
A group of eight young apprentices faced the dragons den on Friday 9 June when they presented their solutions to a real-life business challenge set by Capgemini, a global leader in consulting, technology and outsourcing services.
The challenge, which tasked the students to create a new service desk environment within a tight timescale and budget, formed part of a work placement hosted by the Inverness-based firm as part of Inverness College UHI’s newly launched two-year Foundation Apprenticeship in ICT Hardware and System Support.
By completing the new qualification while they are still at secondary school, the students will gain two professional qualifications (a National Progression Award in Professional Computing Fundamentals and a Diploma for IT and Telecommunications Professionals) all while gaining hands on experience working on a live project in a busy IT industry environment.
Speaking of the event, “Adrian Bruce, Lecturer at Inverness College UHI, said: “The students really impressed the team at Capgemini by demonstrating team work, innovation and a strong understanding of the principles of project management, knowledge management, technical support and testing. They have also really enjoyed the opportunity to put their new skills to the test on a real-life project.
“Programmes like these are invaluable to young learners. Not only do they equip them with important skills for the workplace, they expose them to potential career opportunities. The IT sector is booming, and this is set to continue as we delve deeper into the digital age.
“I’d like to congratulate the students on their success and thank Capgemini for their partnership and support on this exciting programme. I look forward to seeing how the students progress on to the next stage in their career development.”
Darren Robbins, Highland Apprentice Lead at Capgemini, added: “Capgemini is committed to creating pathways to employment for young people from all backgrounds. Our participation in the delivery of the Foundation Apprenticeship programme assists us in tackling the local skills gap and inspiring people to recognise and realise their strengths through opportunities that will translate into employment. I have been hugely impressed with all of the Apprentices, and would like to congratulate them on their achievement.”
The Foundation Apprenticeship in ICT Hardware System Support is designed in partnership with employers, giving students the opportunity to develop careers in the ICT industry. Students who complete the course can progress into employment, move on to further Modern Apprenticeship opportunities or enrol in the first year BSc Computing course.
Foundation Apprenticeships are part of the wider apprenticeship family which includes Modern Apprenticeship and Graduate Apprenticeships, which allow students to complete their studies at Further and Higher Education level while in paid employment.