A partnership between The Access Group, a leading software provider based in the UK, and The Access Foundation is creating significant opportunities for 33 computer science students from Aston and Loughborough Universities. This initiative aims to equip students with essential skills and practical work experience necessary for successful careers in technology after graduation.
The students participating in this initiative have joined The Access Group’s Early Careers scheme, which is focused on narrowing the digital divide and promoting inclusivity in the tech industry. This programme is particularly aimed at young individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, many of whom are the first in their families to attend university. The initiative not only seeks to provide skills but also offers sponsorships to alleviate economic barriers that may hinder their educational journeys.
As a major employer in the East Midlands tech sector, The Access Group is leveraging its expertise to prepare these students for the realities of the modern workforce, thereby contributing to the development of a diverse and resilient workforce that can support both the regional economy and the broader UK tech industry.
Edmund Johnson, Head of Data Engineering at The Access Group, elaborated on the valuable experiences the students are gaining. "The students who have joined us for work experience have been working on live projects with our engineers to give them an insight into the world of work in a digital environment," he explained. He added that the students had engaged in significant technical tasks, such as constructing a dashboard and alerting system for monitoring data pipelines. This not only improves the reliability of data insights but also enables the students to showcase their communication and presentation skills to key stakeholders within the organisation.
The Early Careers scheme aims to provide students with vital teamwork, problem-solving, and networking skills. This real-world experience is intended to enhance their prospects of securing graduate or entry-level roles in an increasingly competitive job market. Employers who engage with these graduates benefit from a talented, diverse workforce that fosters innovation and collaboration, thereby enriching their organisational culture.
Piers McLeish, Trustee for The Access Foundation, acknowledged the financial hurdles many students face, saying, "We know that young talented people who are interested in careers in technology often experience barriers to their learning such as increased costs of higher education and living costs." He emphasised the importance of joint initiatives like this to combat financial inequality that could otherwise impede students’ educational access.
Among the students benefiting from this programme is Ummer Mohammed, currently on a cyber security placement. He stated, "I’ve been given a role which helps me gain experience in a wide variety of skills... This real-life experience is something that can’t be learned in class." His experience at The Access Group has not only enhanced his confidence but also provided him with insights and skills critical for his future career in technology.
The Access Group has continuously prioritised support for students in the early stages of their careers. Following a successful introduction last year, which saw six students awarded scholarships and placed in internships, many more are now being offered similar opportunities. In 2024, an additional ten students completed summer internships, with a further 14 set to embark on placements in mid-2025.
With such initiatives underway, The Access Group and The Access Foundation are making strides towards creating a more equitable and skilled workforce within the technology sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services