Following his work experience with the Dorset tech firm, Sam Waterworth will complete a degree in Software Engineering during his apprenticeship
Dorset tech firm Talk Think Do welcomes Sam Waterworth to the company on a software engineering degree apprenticeship this September. Sam is the first apprentice Talk Think Do have welcomed to the team and joins from Queen Elizabeth School in Wimborne after completing work experience at the company.
Sam will complete his degree through part-time study with Solent University while benefitting from a full-time role within a fast-growing tech organisation.
Matt Hammond, founder of Talk Think Do, said; “Sam’s enthusiasm, coupled with his eagerness to learn and grow, aligns perfectly with our company’s values and culture. By completing a degree apprenticeship, Sam will finish his first three years of employment with an accredited qualification and solid work experience as a software engineer.
“At Talk Think Do, we believe in investing in entry-level development, and we are confident that his dedication and ambition will contribute positively to Talk Think Do’s success. It seems there is a misconception about degree apprenticeships and perhaps a lack of awareness of this option. Degree apprenticeships are a fantastic option for those wanting to further their education while getting hands on, paid work experience.”
Sam has recently completed A Levels in Computing, Maths and Physics, and was first introduced to Talk Think Do during his Year 12 work experience.
Sam commented; “I have always known I wanted to work in tech. I first learnt to code as a child through Scratch, a visual programming language that teaches kids to create their own games using code. I understand now that many people working in the tech industry don’t start learning to code until they’re at university. Now that I am entering my career, I do feel that learning from an early age has given me an advantage. Scratch teaches you the fundamentals of coding and allows you to learn to code more quickly as you gain experience.”
During his apprenticeship at Talk Think Do, Sam will have the opportunity to work closely with the experienced team members, gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of the tech industry, and specifically in EdTech. In his first year with the tech firm, Sam will be exposed to real-world projects, mentorship, and professional development opportunities that will help him kickstart his career in the industry.
Sam added; “I’m glad there’s a balance between studying and working in my new role. I will attend university one day per week, and this gives the added benefit of time to socialise with my peers and utilise the resources on campus, including the library. It’s the best of both worlds! By the time I finish my degree, I’ll have three years’ experience working as an entry-level software engineer. Combined with my degree, I think this sets me up to be in a great position.”
Sam noted; “There’s a misconception about degree apprenticeships. Many people assume that an apprenticeship is instead of a degree, but a degree apprenticeship allows you to do both.”
“My advice to anyone else considering a tech-related apprenticeship would be to take every opportunity you get and reach out to companies early. My work experience at Talk Think Do was the best thing I did to progress my tech career. I now have a paid position in software engineering, a place on my chosen course, and I’m on my way to completing my degree while learning on the job.”
For more information about Talk Think Do, please visit www.talkthinkdo.com.