Jersey businesses are being encouraged to use a new degree-level apprenticeship in digital and technological skills to train existing employees and attract new talent.
The Digital Degree Apprenticeship Scheme enables Islanders to study for a BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions from the University of Exeter while they work and earn a salary in Jersey.
An information evening for prospective employers and potential apprentices is being held next Tuesday, 22 March at Skills Jersey.
Places are available to a range of Jersey businesses that want to participate in this specialist on-island training scheme, which is designed to help address IT staffing needs.
To help launch the scheme, the Government is offering two apprenticeship places, one within the Cyber Emergency Response Team and the other within the Modernisation and Digital Team. Both start in September 2022.
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The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Senator Lyndon Farnham, said: “We have recognised that there is a significant requirement for digital skills in Jersey, and this apprenticeship scheme will enable businesses to train staff in an innovative and cost-effective way, particularly in areas such as software engineering, cyber security and data analysis.”
Skills Jersey Senior Adviser, Digital and Innovation, Dave Roworth, said: “Apprentices must have a job with a Jersey firm to access the course, so we are trying to increase the number of Jersey businesses who create apprenticeships, either for existing staff or for new employees.
“We have worked with colleagues within the Digital Economy Team and across Government to find a model which will appeal to a wider audience, including school leavers, and role-changers who want to earn while they learn.
“We are looking for aspiring technology people who will develop, protect and improve services for our local businesses, whilst studying at a top Russell Group University. There is a significant number of people who would like to get a university degree without having to leave the Island, so we think the demand is there, and we want to encourage businesses help boost supply.”
Funding is available for students to help cover their tuition fees.
University of Exeter representatives will be in Jersey for an information evening, which will take place at 5:30pm at Skills Jersey’s offices on Tuesday, 22 March. Click here for more information and to reserve a place.
