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IT professional Rachid Aboulachouaq is thriving in the ���Ҵ�ý’s (UWTSD) Software Development Degree Apprenticeship programme, demonstrating the impact of combining academic learning with real-world industry experience.

Rachid, who works in the IT Systems and Infrastructure Department at UWTSD, initially pursued a full-time degree in another subject area, but had to withdraw due to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, his passion for software development led him to discover the apprenticeship opportunity at UWTSD, allowing him to study while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

He applies his newly acquired skills to process data requests and develop and manage reports, contributing to the efficient operation of various university departments.

Rachid, who lives in Llanelli, said he was drawn to the idea of earning a degree while gaining industry experience at the same time. “Being able to apply what I learn in my course to my work, and vice versa, has been an invaluable experience,” he added.

Throughout the course, Rachid has faced and overcome challenges, such as complex assignments that initially seemed impossible. With the support of his peers and lecturers, he has developed technical skills, including creating functional websites that communicate with backend databases. His work at UWTSD has also benefited, as the course provides deeper insights into concepts he encounters in his role.

“The learning in lectures helps clarify industry concepts, making my work more effective,” he said. “Likewise, when I encounter something at work that I haven’t yet covered in class, I can understand it more thoroughly when we do study it.”

Rachid is a strong advocate for the apprenticeship route, highlighting the balance between work and study, the financial benefits of earning while learning, and the opportunity to develop both technical and professional skills.

“The industry experience you develop is incredibly valuable. You also improve your soft skills too, such as communication, team work, problem solving and the ability to adjust to new situations and changes, which significantly increase your value to employers,” he said.

Professionally, Rachid said the apprenticeship has helped him understand agile working environments and organisational needs, while personally, it has fostered a mindset of continuous self-improvement.

“My next goal is to complete my degree while continuing to contribute to UWTSD,” he said. “In the future, I want to travel more, and I am ensuring that my experience here will prepare me for work in different countries.”

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071