Middlesex University has launched six digital apprenticeship programmes for construction, spanning cyber security and data science through to digital marketing and user experience (UX).
The programme aims to address current construction skills shortages and future skills needs, promote social inclusion, and increase productivity.
Some 56% of businesses told the London Local Skills Improvement Plan that they would need more advanced digital skills within the next two to five years.
Across the UK, the digital sector employs 1.9 million people, and a further 678,000 digital-skilled roles are expected to be needed this year.
Middlesex University director of degree apprenticeships, professor Darryll Bravenboer, said: “Our new digital degree apprenticeships are built with both construction employers and learners in mind.
“They are designed to fill critical skills gaps across the sector, whilst offering apprentices a strong start to a successful career in the digital space.”
The university is urging businesses to make use of the government’s apprenticeship levy to fund places on its apprenticeships programme. Around £2.7bn of levy funds have been returned since the fund was set up.
Bravenboer added: “This is a unique opportunity to earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience in a digital environment. From day one, apprentices work on practical projects to develop their technology skills across areas such as UX, marketing and cybersecurity.
“We are proud to be shaping the future workforce and contributing to the UK’s digital economy through education that truly has an impact.”
The six apprenticeships available are:
- Cyber Security Technical Professional Apprenticeship
- Data Scientist Apprenticeship
- Digital User Experience Professional
- Digital Technology Solutions Professional
- Creative Digital Design Professional
- Digital Marketer
