UA92 Apprenticeships: A New Model for Learning and Industry Alignment

UA92 is reshaping how apprenticeships connect learners with real industry needs. By combining academic learning with employer-led training, the institution ensures that students build skills aligned with today’s job market. Each program is developed in partnership with industry, aiming to create clear pathways from education into work.

Milestones and Impact: How UA92 Is Shaping Modern Apprenticeships

Since launching its apprenticeship programs in January 2023, UA92 has taken a practical approach to aligning education with real-world industry needs. Early milestones include the development of tailored pathways and employer collaborations that reflect the demands of the tech sector. While still in its early stages, the initiative is already building momentum as it expands.

As part of their DevOps apprenticeship program, a cohort of 20 learners sat the Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Linux Essentials exam — and all passed. The certification is embedded within the first two modules of the curriculum, which provide a technical foundation in Linux and operating systems. The 100% success rate highlights both the commitment of the learners and the program’s effectiveness in preparing apprentices with essential industry-ready skills.

«At UA92 we see Linux Essentials as a crucial component of DevOps. Adding in vendor qualifications, such as LPI Linux Essentials, to our apprenticeship programs provides benefits to the apprentice by helping them to gain credentials recognized across the industry.» (Aaron Saxton, Non-Executive Director, UA92).

Defining Achievements

Last year the Apprenticeships Accelerator conference became a cornerstone event for UA92, showcasing its innovative approach to skills and employer engagement. With Non-Executive Director, Aaron Saxton (Sax) as keynote speaker and a dynamic panel of apprentices, the event not only inspired attendees but generated meaningful media and visual content for future campaigns. By the month’s end, UA92 earned recognition as a national finalist for two Apprenticeship & Training Awards (ATAs), celebrating their pioneering use of technology and commitment to inclusion.

Collaborating for Future Growth

UA92 is working with leading employers and has secured Office for Students (OfS) funding to develop Level 6 degree apprenticeships in Data Science and Digital Marketing. These efforts aim to address skills shortages in key sectors while offering learners accessible pathways to higher education and employment. The partnerships reflect a growing focus on practical, industry-aligned learning that prepares students for the demands of a changing job market.

During National Apprenticeship Week 2025, UA92 contributed to raising awareness through initiatives such as Bruntwood’s PR campaign and a feature interview with Prolific North. Looking ahead, the university plans to host an apprentice celebration event in April to recognise the first cohort of DevOps Level 4 apprentices—who recently completed the program with a 100% pass rate.

UA92’s apprenticeship programs reflect a growing shift in how education and industry connect. By aligning training with real-world needs and fostering inclusive pathways, the university is demonstrating how modern learning models can create meaningful, long-term impact for learners and employers alike.