Apprentice Cyber Security Consultant
Choosing an apprenticeship
What were you doing before you started your apprenticeship with us?
Before starting my apprenticeship at CDS Defence and Security (CDS DS), I was attending college and completing my Level 3 BTEC in Cyber Security. I was also actively competing in kickboxing competitions up and down the country, and even in Italy!
Why did you choose to take the apprenticeship route?
After a lot of theory and written-based learning in my BTEC, I decided I wanted to gain some real-life industry experience. The Apprentice Cyber Security Consultant role at CDS DS allowed me to work with real clients and gain a degree at the same time! I have a visual and practical learning style and real working tasks help me develop and retain knowledge better.
So far, what have been the benefits of choosing an apprenticeship?
It’s been a fantastic opportunity to earn whilst studying. Other students my age, who attend university, might not have the chance to be able to save and study at the same time – plus the student debt at the end! Being able to split my time between work and university, in different environments, has made learning more enjoyable.
What did your family or friends think about you choosing an apprenticeship route?
Many of my friends went onto university after our BTEC studies. I applied to university too, however, when speaking with my college tutors, as well as family and friends, they felt it would be a good idea to look into apprenticeships. I explained to them that my learning preference was practical and hands-on. My parents have also been very supportive in my decision to choose the apprenticeship route!
Your role at Bailie Group
What does your role involve?
Being a Cyber Security consultant; my role includes being involved with all different types of client-facing projects for small and large organisations.
What projects are you working on that involves you liaising/working with colleagues across your team or wider business?
Currently I’m waiting for my Security Clearance to be approved so I can work on client projects. Whilst waiting for this, it’s given me the opportunity to put my best foot forward and proactively work on my university studies and focus on exams and coursework.
How does your day-to-day work link to the apprenticeship that you're completing?
My day-to-day work will allow me to put theory into practice. It will allow me to gain real-life experience in Cyber.
What support are you getting from your team and wider business?
CDS DS have been excellent at giving extra support to myself and the other apprentices. When we first started, we had a week in the Leeds office getting to know all the other apprentices. It gave us the opportunity to get settled in, learn more about the Group and the team building exercises really helped us to become comfortable with each other.
Overall Thoughts
Would you recommend the apprenticeship route to others?
100%. I believe that an apprenticeship route is the best way to gain industry experience and learn at the same time. I’ve been at CDS DS for nearly 3 months and it’s been a very positive experience so far. I’m really excited for the next 4 years of my degree!
Three words to describe your Bailie Group apprenticeship?
Learn about our apprentices and see how you can kickstart your career too. Find out more below.
