Dropping in for coffee leads to degree and work

Rhodri Wyn Williams of Gaerwen, Anglesey was popping to for coffee, when he learnt about a ����ֱ�� Degree apprenticeship based there, and decided that this was exactly what he needed.

That was three years ago. Today he graduates with a BSc degree in Applied Cyber Security and is about to start work at Vigo IT Solutions, a tenant company at M-Sparc, where he has been completing part of his degree apprenticeship placement.

A former pupil of Ysgol Gyfun Llangefni and Ysgol David Hughes where he took his A levels, Rhodri did not intend to go to university full-time, but when he found out about degree apprenticeships, and the opportunity to work at M-SParc while following a degree, he realised that this was just what he’d been looking for.

Rhodri would encourage anyone uncertain whether to work full-time or study, to consider a degree apprenticeship.

He says, “I’m proud to tell people that I’ve graduated from ����ֱ�� and was pleased to be able to work and study at the same time, and do that close to where I live.”

He found that the work and study was well-integrated and that he was able to apply what he was learning in his everyday work.

During his apprenticeship at M-SParc he had a range of responsibilities and experiences, including teaching people to use equipment in the workplace, educating Ysgol David Hughes pupils about technology, working with the Ar-y-Lon (On Tour) team, being responsible for locations from time to time and contributing to internal projects.

Though he acquired numerous skills, Rhodri says it wasn’t all work. Rhodri also had the opportunity to focus on student life and joined PhotoSOC and Sub Aqua clubs in his first two years, acting as Treasurer for the Students’ Union Sub Aqua Club.

On graduating, he recommended others to go for it, “My experience at ����ֱ�� has been valuable, I’ve made friends for life, learnt valuable skills and made connections which should take me far.”

Dr Iestyn Pierce, Head of the School of Computer Science and Engineering, said,

"A degree apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity to combine academic work with practical experience. Degree apprenticeships allow students to develop their knowledge and skills in the workplace, providing a comprehensive experience that bridges academic learning and practical application. ����ֱ�� is proud to partner with local further education colleges to ensure a well-rounded experience that leverages the strengths of both academia and the real world."

Pryderi ap Rhisiart Managing Director at M-SParc said, “It's great to see the way Rhodri has developed over the last three years. Not only did he develop technical and academic skills but he is now graduating and stepping into the world of work with soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving which will be valuable to him throughout his career."

"Rhodri contributed to every aspect of work and life at M-SParc and he will be greatly missed. Above all he has a positive attitude where nothing is too much - a real can-do mentality and I wish him the best.”

Tom Burke, Digital Entrepreneurship Manager at M-SParc added, “It has been a real pleasure to work with Rhodri and see his confidence and skills bloom over the past few years. Rhodri has applied himself across multiple areas during his degree apprenticeship and proven that he is more than capable to rise to any challenge. The degree apprenticeship scheme is an excellent way for someone like Rhodri to learn on the job, it’s a win-win situation – get a degree, gain real-world experience, potentially meet your future employer and earn money at the same time! Hopefully, Rhodri takes this experience and makes a wonderful career for himself, I’m sure he will!”

Rhodri was also the first recipient of the M-SParc Young Innovator of the Year at this year’s Innovation Conference.