UA92 gears up to start apprenticeships with tech brands

University Academy 92 (UA92) will deliver its first digital apprenticeships from January 2023, working in partnership with several high profile technology brands.

The higher education institution, based in Old Trafford, is currently assessing applicants for intake and will partner with leading sports brand, JD Sports, and Manchester-based digital agency, Pixel Kicks, for the delivery of its first digital apprenticeship programmes in the new year. Students who successfully enter the scheme will benefit from on-campus learning at UA92 as well as gaining vital work experience at their respective companies.

Sara Prowse, CEO of UA92, said: “Preparing our students for employment is at the core of what we do at UA92, so the introduction of our digital apprenticeship programme is another exciting phase of development for us. We’re working extremely closely with our industry partners to deliver these degree-level courses to co-create the content, ensuring it’s modern, relevant and keeps pace with the ever changing and evolving tech landscape, ensuring that our students are well equipped for the world of work, now and in the future. 

“This is part of our ongoing strategic plan to ensure we are offering courses at the cutting edge of tech which upskill and plug the digital skills gap. Degree-level apprenticeships are a brilliant start to a career, equipping people with the right knowledge and skills while they develop in their roles. We’re delighted to be working with JD Sports and Pixel Kicks from the outset and look forward to welcoming our new cohort of apprenticeship students soon.” 

UA92 expects to open up 40 digital apprenticeship opportunities over the current academic year, with further brands coming on board in 2023. As part of the course, students will be able to access the very latest technology and a tailored learning programme specifically built to the needs of the business they will work for. The facility is planning to introduce a Master’s level AI apprenticeship course next year. 

Prowse added: “Businesses of all sizes can partner with UA92, whether they utilise an apprenticeship levy or not, to open up these amazing opportunities to the next generation of their workforce. Partnering with us in this way gives peace of mind that courses will be delivered to an exceptionally high quality, with students using the very latest technology in our Digital Academy.”

Facilities at UA92’s Digital Academy include a VR/AR lab, a fully immersive 360-degree Igloo learning space, flex-tech classrooms and digital media suites. 

UA92 was co-founded by Lancaster University and the Class of ‘92. Open since 2019, it aims to make higher education accessible to all, through its founding principles of accessibility, social mobility and inclusivity. It offers a portfolio of degree and higher education courses across business, sport, media and digital disciplines, preparing students for the world of work by offering industry-led courses.

Working in partnership with leading names including Microsoft, TalkTalk, KPMG and Manchester United, students benefit from mentors, guest lectures and work experience opportunities, in addition to character and personal development guidance, and financial support beyond traditional scholarships and government loans.