Kieran Russell from Wemyss Bay, who attended Clydeview Academy, started his SCQF level 10 software engineering apprenticeship with JP Morgan Chase in 2015, and he says he really enjoyed the experience.

“I’ve loved every second of it, it’s been a roller coaster,” he explains. “I would say the biggest challenge I’ve faced is learning how to work within an office. It was a big step up from school but now I’m at the stage where I’m working well in a team. I can definitely say I’ve learned so much.”

Passion for technology

Kieran says that he has always had a passion for technology, so when he heard about the opportunity of a Graduate Apprenticeship with JP Morgan Chase while he was still at school, he jumped at the chance.

He enjoys being able to earn money while learning, and would recommend an apprenticeship to others who are focused and driven enough to fully benefit from the experience.

He says: “One of the stand out moments for me would be a project I delivered on my own from start to finish. I designed the whole thing myself and I was very proud of my achievement. I learned a lot about new technologies. And I’ve also learned how to be a grown up!”

JP Morgan Chase has had 44 apprentices come through its doors in Scotland since it started the programme in 2015.

Robbie Allan, vice president, JP Morgan Chase, says that the business really benefits from having apprentices who look at challenges from a different perspective.

He explains: “Not only are we getting a group of people in who are really keen, but they also address situations in different ways and take a fresh approach to solving problems.”

Robbie says that Kieran has made real progress in the last few years. “He always shows a real willingness to learn new things and be innovative. He’s picking up a huge amount of responsibility while still studying for a software development degree. It’s pretty remarkable really.”

For further information about how work-based learning could help you, your staff or your business visit Apprenticeships.Scot. For further information about digital skills and careers, visit Digital World.