23RD MAR 2026
Apprenticeship Spotlight: Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Integrated Degree Apprenticeship
Employer Training and Apprenticeships
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Delivered in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), the DATS PID apprenticeship equips learners with much needed and in demand digital and technical skills as identified by Gloucestershire's Local Skills Improvement Plan. Levy-paying employers can use their Apprenticeship Levy funds to cover training costs, while non-levy employers can benefit from significant government co-funding.
As Cheltenham continues to establish itself as the UK’s cyber capital, employers have a valuable opportunity to strengthen their digital capability. Our Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Integrated Degree (DATS PID) apprenticeship enables organisations to either recruit new talent or upskill existing staff in a rapidly growing field. The programme is designed to build the advanced digital and technical skills highlighted as a priority in Gloucestershire’s Local Skills Improvement Plan, helping businesses stay competitive and future-ready.
What is a Digital and Technology Solutions Professional?
A Digital & Technology Solutions Professional designs and delivers technology-driven solutions for both internal teams and external customers. They work across a variety of areas such as software development, business and systems analysis, cyber security, data analysis, and network infrastructure.
By combining academic learning with hands-on experience, the DATS PID apprenticeship equips learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the fast-moving digital industry, supporting people from diverse backgrounds to build rewarding technology careers.
What type of businesses are best suited to taking on a DATS apprentice?
Businesses best suited to taking on a DATS PID apprentice are those that rely on technology to deliver their services or improve operations. This includes technology companies, organisations with established IT or digital teams, and businesses undergoing digital transformation.
The key requirement is the ability to provide a meaningful scope of work, supervision, and mentorship, enabling apprentices to develop practical skills and contribute to real digital initiatives.
Who can benefit from this programme?
Organisations across a wide range of industries, who are increasingly relying on technology for operations, data analysis, security, and digital solutions to remain competitive in the digital age. Employers can hire apprentices or upskill their existing employees, providing on-the-job training, and moulding them according to their specific needs and industry requirements. Professionals skilled in digital and technology solutions play a vital role in developing and maintaining organisation’s systems, leading to higher productivity, innovation, and business growth.
Working professionals in software development, who want to enhance their skills, advance their careers, or transition to a new field.
How is the course structured?
The programme consists of core and specialism modules.
Core Modules are taken by all apprentices during the first year of study. Then they will be required to choose a particular specialism. At Gloucestershire College, we offer the following pathways:
Software Engineer
Network Engineer
Cyber Analyst
Delivery & Duration
DATS PID apprentices will spend most of their time in the workplace, but will be required to attend the College for a block delivery of the curriculum. Apprentices will be training at our state-of-the-art Advanced Digital Academy (ADA) under the guidance of highly-experienced lectures.
Duration: 36 months plus 6 months for the End Point Assessment.
The final assessments consist of a project and presentation – both elements will be assessed in partnership with employer.
The work based project takes place near the end of the apprenticeship. It is a substantial piece of work typically lasting 6 months and covers the skills, knowledge and behaviours defined in the standard.
The presentation covers the project problem domain, approach, outcomes and the skills, knowledge and behaviours demonstrated.
What qualification is awarded?
Upon successful completion of DATS PID apprenticeship, learners are awarded BSc (Hons) in Digital & Technology Solutions from UWE Bristol.
Completers may want to progress to Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Integrated Degree Level 7.
Contact us today
We are enrolling now for DATS PID apprenticeship starting in September 2026. Download apprenticeship factsheet
If your organisation is interested in recruiting a DATS Professional apprentice or has a member of staff to upskill with this programme, get in touch with our Employer Training & Apprenticeships team ASAP to discuss your needs and find out about support and funding available.
Email: employer.training@gloscol.ac.uk
Call: 0345 1552020
