He was taken on by Hutchinson Engineering, a Kilrea based company as a Higher Level Apprentice (HLA) and in now in his third year of his Computing apprenticeship. He spends three and a half days each week with his employer and one day at Northern Regional College where he is working towards achieving a Foundation Degree in Computing.
Jordan enjoys the balance of practical experience and theory offered by the HLA:
“At Hutchinson Engineering, I get an opportunity to work on a range of different projects and tasks, including Software Development, IT Support, and reports for Shop floor use. I’ve also developed valuable transferable skills such as communications, working as part of a team and problem solving. This workplace experience makes the theory taught in College more relevant, applicable and easier to understand.”
Jordan is confident that the HLA in Computing was the right choice for him and he says he would have no hesitation encouraging other young people to consider the HLA route.
“As a Higher Level Apprentice, I earn as I learn. My fees are paid, I get a good wage so I’m not burdened with student debt and, importantly, I get valuable experience in the workplace to increase my knowledge and expertise in a specific area which ultimately will improve my employability.”
When he completes the Foundation Degree at Northern Regional College, Jordan intends to continue with his studies on a part-time basis and study a Computing degree at Ulster University – all part of his long-term goal to become a software developer.