Astutis Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with inaugural USW Graduate Placement

Astutis, a leading health, safety and environmental training provider, are using National Apprenticeship week to celebrate its partnership with the University of South Wales, Network 75 Graduate scheme.

Network75 is a combined work placement and part-time study route that allows students to work, earn and learn. Meanwhile, National Apprenticeship Week 2022 is an annual week-long celebration of businesses and apprenticeships.

At the heart of the Astutis celebrations is Cole Vyas, a Marketing undergraduate from the Network 75 programme who joined Astutis in September 2021. Cole, who is completing a degree in Marketing at the University of South Wales, would encourage others to consider taking the apprenticeship route.

Cole said, “ I have always preferred to learn hands-on rather than just in a classroom. The apprenticeship with Astutis means that I am funded with a bursary by the business. I learn the theory of my chosen subject, and then I have the opportunity to apply that knowledge whilst adding value to the team. The Network 75 programme is a fantastic way to find the career you want.

“The most rewarding part so far has been launching a new Astutis brand, a new website and being right in the thick of the day to day marketing activities with a fun and skilled team. I’m a member of the MSquad with the added bonus that I learn on the job, get paid and gain real-life experience.”

Ruth Williams, Head of Marketing, and apprentice mentor, said, “ In a week where we celebrate National Apprentices, we are also celebrating the fantastic achievements Cole has already delivered in such a short time. Apprenticeships are an excellent way for people of all ages to take their first steps into a high-quality job to upskill themselves. Cole’s placement is highly beneficial for our marketing department and the rest of the business and enables us to nurture and grow talent from within.

The Network75 team at USW has been busy celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, focusing on our students, their development, and their achievements.

Vicki Davies, Network75 & Professional Academy Project Coordinator, said: “Today we met with Cole and were thrilled to learn how just a few months into his 5-year Network75 placement Cole is already an integral and valued member of the team at Astutis! Cole has already achieved so much in his placement and at University, and we are excited to see what the future brings for both Cole and Astutis!”