Mature student proves it’s never too late to learn with Cardiff Met apprenticeship

News | 11 February 2025

A Civil Servant has embraced lifelong learning by undertaking a degree apprenticeship with Cardiff Metropolitan University at the age of 51. Carl Roberts, a Systems Development Manager at the Office for National Statistics (ONS), saw this apprenticeship as a chance to validate his wealth of knowledge, enhance his skills, and become more efficient in his role.

Having dedicated 23 years to the ONS, Carl, from Abergavenny, recognised the importance of continuous professional development. Before joining the Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree in its second year, he had already achieved a Level 4 Diploma in Data Analytics. The Welsh Government-funded apprenticeship provided him with access to new tools and techniques that are directly applicable to his responsibilities at work, enabling him to further streamline processes and support innovation within the organisation.

Reflecting on his journey, Carl acknowledges that overcoming imposter syndrome was a key challenge. “There were moments when I questioned whether I could do it,” he admits. “But I want to encourage others – especially those who may doubt themselves – that it is absolutely possible to grow and succeed, regardless of age or background.”

On the realities of undertaking a degree apprenticeship alongside his full-time role at ONS, Carl added: “Sometimes work priorities took over and I felt I couldn’t commit to the apprenticeship. In those situations, Cardiff Met and my employer were very supportive, allowing me personal learning time to complete assignments; enabling me to fulfil my apprenticeship.”

Cardiff Met’s degree apprenticeship programme is designed to empower apprentices with structured learning opportunities while recognising and reinforcing their existing expertise. For Carl, it has been a transformative experience that not only bolstered his professional development but also set a strong example for his colleagues within the organisation.

Since completing his apprenticeship in 2024, Carl has provided support to other apprentices through mentoring. He has also supported the Office for National Statistics Data Science Graduate programme by facilitating graduates in data analytics tasks.

Carl’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone considering upskilling later in their career. He hopes that by sharing his experience, others will feel motivated to embrace new learning opportunities and push past self-doubt to achieve their goals.

Reflecting on Carl’s apprenticeship journey, Cardiff Met’s Degree Apprenticeships Lead, Tara Williams said: “Carl’s story is truly inspiring and highlights the impact of the degree apprenticeship funding on individuals regardless of their career background or journey. It is great to see the impact that this has had for both Carl and his employer, and we look forward to continuing to provide these opportunities to apprentices in years to come.”

More information on Cardiff Met’s degree apprenticeships can be found here.