In the past year the world has changed, and technology and technological innovations have been pushed to the forefront as society has had to adapt to new ways of living and working.

And now we’ve recognised how technology can be used in new and exciting ways and make our lives easier, we want it to continue. But innovation requires innovators. People who want to challenge the norm, break down conventions and shape the future.

Which is why Activate Learning is excited to announce our collaborative partnership with Milton Keynes College to deliver the new South Central Institute of Technology (IOT).

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Working with leading brands such as Microsoft, KPMG, McAfee, Cranfield University, and Evidence Talks, Activate Learning will be hosting two state-of-the-art hubs at our Blackbird Leys Technology Campus in Oxford and at our Reading College campus.

We are perfectly positioned within the Thames Valley region to provide tech firms with the talent they need to grow and thrive. Our vision is to increase the representation of black and ethnic minorities, women and other under-represented groups within the sector and make it more representative of the modern society we live in. We will create an environment for new thinking and enable you and other talented and gifted people to fulfil their potential in technical training and find careers in the digital and technology sectors.

What is an IOT?

Institutes of Technology have been designed to create higher level technical qualifications, in partnership with employers to increase productivity and raise the standards of university-level technical education.

Programmes and qualifications available

As part of our IOT offering, there will be three apprenticeships and four Higher National Certificate (HNC) qualifications starting in 2021 at our Reading College campus.

Apprenticeships

Our higher apprenticeships take two years to complete. There’s no upper age limit to study an apprenticeship, so they’re perfect if you are looking to change career or to develop in your current role.

Facilities and support

As part of your apprenticeship, you will have access to the following facilities at our colleges: 

  • libraries and learning environments
  • ability to borrow books and laptops
  • digital resources and programmes
  • a student card allowing you to take advantage of student discounts
  • you can apply for an Apprentice extra Totum Card

Advice and support services for apprentices includes: 

  • advice and admissions
  • learning support
  • student support
  • impartial careers advisors
  • one-to-one support
  • a college nurse
  • free counselling service 

Progression routes

A technology apprenticeship can lead to a rewarding career in a variety of roles in the industry and across a variety of sectors. You may choose to progress with your employer, change jobs or progress to a higher-level course.
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Progression routes

What happens next? Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there are plenty of options! You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies, or work full time. We will support you whatever you decide!

The apprenticeship programme

You will have access to a range of support and advice we have on offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support.

You can access all facilities at Activate Learning Colleges and reap benefits, such as student discount. However, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries as apprenticeships are paid positions.

How much will I earn?

The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of your role, sector and business you are working with.

The minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £8.00, however most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed one year, you will be paid national minimum wage. 

You will also be entitled to the same conditions as all other employees in a business, including paid holiday, sick pay and pensions (where requirements are met).

What can I expect from my apprenticeship?

You must be at least 16 years old when you start an apprenticeship.

There are 3 types of apprenticeships depending on your requirements and previous qualifications: day release, work-based and block-release.

Your apprenticeship programme may be assessed with:

  • Practical assessments/exams
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • Interviews and presentations
  • Final assessments
  • On and off the job training

You will have a performance coach visit your workplace every eight weeks as well as an inhouse mentor throughout your apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months, but can vary between 12 months to 5 years.