Software engineering student Sam Waterworth has returned for an apprenticeship at Wimborne tech firm Talk Think Do after impressing the team on Year 12 work experience.

In the meantime, he’ll be studying for one day a week at Solent University while working a full-time role under the guidance of company founder, Matt Hammond.

“Sam’s enthusiasm, coupled with his eagerness to learn and grow, aligns perfectly with our company’s values and culture”, said Matt.

“By completing a degree apprenticeship, Sam will finish his first three years of employment with an accredited qualification and solid work experience as a software engineer.

“We believe in investing in entry-level development, and we’re confident that his dedication and ambition will contribute positively to Talk Think Do’s success.”

As an apprentice, Sam will work closely alongside the team, gaining hands-on experience through real-world projects and mentoring across various aspects of the tech industry, but particularly EdTech.

Having recently completed A Levels in Computing, Maths and Physics, he’s put himself on a clear trajectory towards a career in tech – something he knew he wanted to pursue from a young age.

“I first learned to code as a child through Scratch, a visual programming language that teaches kids to create their own games using code”, Sam explained.

“I understand now that many people working in the tech industry don’t start learning to code until they’re at university.

“Now that I’m entering my career, I do feel that learning from an early age has given me an advantage.”

Sam’s also keen to dispel some myths about the path he’s chosen to take, juggling university with full-time work.

“There’s a misconception about degree apprenticeships”, he added.

“Many people assume that an apprenticeship is instead of a degree, but a degree apprenticeship allows you to do both.

“My advice to anyone else considering a tech-related apprenticeship would be to take every opportunity you get and reach out to companies early.”

“My work experience at Talk Think Do was the best thing I did to progress my tech career.

“I now have a paid position in software engineering, a place on my chosen course, and I’m on my way to completing my degree while learning on the job.”

• talkthinkdo.com