Ben Ward, Aylesbury UTC's first IT apprentice, has completed his 18-month apprenticeship.
Ben studied Computing (now known as Digital) at AUTC for four years, after joining in Year 10 in 2018. Following a Next Steps meeting with the Careers Lead and Principal (which all students are invited to attend to discuss future career plans), it was clear he was keen to pursue his IT interests.
Merchant Taylors' Oxfordshire Academy Trust, alongside the training provider Yeovil College, were delighted to set up the Level 3 Information Communications Technician apprenticeship for Ben. He started this position in August 2022, following an extended work experience at AUTC.
Apart from remote learning one day per week, Ben worked as the sole technician at AUTC, supported by IT colleagues at Wallingford School. His work included an overhaul to the CCTV, access control, curriculum software, hardware deployment, revamping IT suites and procurement projects.
The apprenticeship concluded with an end-point assessment consisting of a work-based project, project questions and a 1-hour professional discussion.
Ben says:
"I have really enjoyed my time working at AUTC and intend to continue, fully qualified. The favourite part of my day-to-day is supporting, laughing and getting to know our students. This helps me tailor my support to them and learn how we can improve our systems. The supportive colleagues I work with at AUTC and Wallingford School have helped greatly.
“A huge thanks to Nick Lamb, John Marston and Petra Rushton for working hard to develop the apprenticeship in a short timeframe. It has also been fantastic working with Joe Dunckley (AUTC Principal) since September, exploring new ideas to move the AUTC's Digital and IT elements forward."
The determination to ensure young people reach purposeful destinations is a key feature of Aylesbury UTC. The role provides a broad understanding and real-world experience in tackling IT problems and providing support for many people and multiple schools. We look forward to providing a similar opportunity for current AUTC students to progress onto in future.