The Shared Apprenticeship Scheme represents a fresh and dynamic initiative aimed at enriching the existing Level 3 IT apprenticeship by enabling collaboration across multiple departments, including IT Services. Launching as a pilot programme in 2025, this scheme will provide apprentices with industry-recognised IT qualifications, delivered by our trusted training provider, Basingstoke ITEC.
The progress of the two-year apprenticeship scheme has been encouraging. Earlier this year, the University's Heads of Technology approved the role, job description, and placement options for the programme. Subsequently, two apprenticeship positions were allocated to NDORMS and IT Services. The vacancies were advertised in May and attracted 130 applications. Following a comprehensive assessment day in June, which included teamwork activities, presentations, and interviews, two candidates were successfully selected and offered positions. Their appointments have commenced in September 2025.
The apprentices have begun with a one-week induction featuring campus tours, introductory meetings, and mandatory training. They will then spend six weeks working on the University service desk, handling calls and acquiring essential IT experience before starting their initial placements. The induction programme will also include information sessions and workshops pertaining to university operations. At the conclusion of the first year, in September 2026, they will swap departments.
We anticipate that this initiative will continue next year. Departments interested in hosting an apprentice from September 2026 are invited to contact us at sharedinfrastructureservices@admin.ox.ac.uk.
