The UWTSD Digital Degree Apprentice studying whilst helping to save lives
Studying for his Digital Degree Apprenticeship in Cyber Security and Computing Networks at UWTSD whilst working as an Infrastructure Operations Support Technician for Digital Health and Care Wales (DHCW), should be enough to keep Joshua Harries busy.
But it clearly isn’t. The 22-year-old is also a trained volunteer first responder with the Wales Ambulance Service and volunteered to work for NHS 111 over the Christmas and New Year period as a call handler and with 999 as operational support.
Since starting his degree apprenticeship at the University’s SA1 campus, Joshua, from Ebbw Vale, has been promoted twice and is now on target for further success. He credits the skills learnt and support received at UWTSD and says it’s also helped him to do more in his spare time too.
“Studying at University has helped my confidence and given me the kick I needed to start my career,” he said.
“Without the degree apprenticeship I wouldn’t be where I am now. I use what I’ve learnt at university in my work and can also use the skills acquired in my role in my course work. It’s so beneficial and without a doubt, it’s helped me to get promoted.
“Yes, it’s hard to juggle it all sometimes, but the support you receive from lecturers, from DHCW and from our Apprentice Liaison Officers at UWTSD is fantastic. They are always there for you. I would encourage anyone in my position to think about university while they are working. It is achievable and so rewarding.”
Josh said returning to learning has also helped him achieve more in his spare time too. After his dad suffered a heart attack, which happened close to where a trained first responder was quickly on the scene, Josh said he wanted to be in position to help others too.
“My dad has since recovered well and it’s made me want to train to help others like him,” he said.
“The University has helped with my confidence with staff encouraging and supporting me to undertake additional volunteer training with the emergency services. When my dad was suddenly taken ill, the first responder being on scene to ensure he got to hospital quickly, saved his life.
“As long as I can do the same and make a difference to one patient, that’s what I want to do.”
Joshua, who was diagnosed with Dyslexia and ADHD whilst at university, is now looking forward to completing his course and graduating next Summer.
“I’m determined to get a top grade and I’m doing all I can to achieve that,” he said. “Being diagnosed with Dyslexia and ADHD, has finally answered a few questions for me. Those closest to me are amazed but I can see where the diagnosis fits. Again, the support from the university is there for me at all times and that makes me more determined to keep on achieving. I can’t wait to take my place at my graduation ceremony and walk across that stage – with my family watching me.”
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071