Birmingham City Council is Accelerating Careers Through Data Apprenticeships

For those looking to develop a career in data, professional development apprenticeships offer a powerful combination of learning and hands-on experience.

Birmingham City Council is one of many forward-thinking companies that have embraced data apprenticeships to upskill staff and future-proof its existing workforce. We caught up with Nathan Sysum, Data & Performance Manager at the council’s Empower U Safeguarding Hub, who shared his journey and how his Data apprenticeship has shaped his career.

Finding a Pathway into Data

Initially working in administrative roles at the council, Nathan developed a keen interest in data management as the organisation placed greater emphasis on data-driven initiatives. Recognising its growing importance, he naturally took on responsibilities in data handling and began strategising ways to use data more effectively across the council.

“My interest in the apprenticeship was to solidify that knowledge and get a formal qualification. When you’re self-taught, you learn what you need to get the job done, but not necessarily everything that you could do with data.”

Over time, his self-taught data skills allowed him to contribute to more data-driven projects. However, he recognised gaps in his knowledge and saw an apprenticeship as a way to solidify his expertise, gain a formal qualification, and open new career opportunities.

His apprenticeship has provided Nathan with a structured way to transition into his more data-focused role, offering not just theoretical knowledge but also practical applications. Nathan’s experience demonstrates that you don’t need to have a formal data background to succeed – just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

The Value of Learning While Working

One of the greatest advantages of an apprenticeship is the ability to apply newly acquired skills directly in the workplace. Unlike traditional learning routes, which can sometimes feel disconnected from real-world challenges, apprenticeships allow learners to put theory into practice from day one – driving immediate value for both the apprentice and their employer.

This hands-on approach has been transformative for Nathan. His role involves working with complex datasets to track trends in the criminal and sexual exploitation of young people, providing essential insights that help shape safeguarding strategies. Having access to real-world data has allowed him to see the direct impact of his work, reinforcing the importance of data-driven decision-making in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

“My role is extremely important. We deal with data relating to criminal and sexual exploitation of young people, so we must ensure that we are making data-driven decisions that provide effective support to young people.”

Through his apprenticeship, Nathan has gained hands-on experience with data analysis, Power BI, SQL, and automation – essential skills in modern data-driven workplaces. His learning has not only enhanced his technical proficiency but also significantly improved efficiency in his team’s reporting processes.

“With Power BI, we’re learning how to properly refine data, use filters correctly, and manage high-dimensional data. The shortcuts they teach save me 10-20 minutes per task, which adds up to a lot of hours saved over time.”

By refining his knowledge and adopting best practices in data handling and automation, Nathan has contributed to faster, more accurate reporting—ensuring that critical safeguarding decisions are based on the most up-to-date and reliable insights. The ability to immediately apply learning in real-world scenarios makes training far more engaging, relevant, and impactful. This direct connection between learning and practice ensures that apprentices not only develop key skills but also gain the confidence and problem-solving abilities needed to thrive in their careers.

Gaining Confidence and Overcoming Personal Challenges

Like many apprentices, Nathan faced challenges along the way. As someone with ADHD, traditional learning environments were not always suited to his needs. However, the supportive structure of the apprenticeship programme helped him stay engaged. His Data coach took the time to understand his needs, checking in regularly and making adjustments to ensure he stayed on track.

“I have ADHD, and with that comes a worry about imposter syndrome – especially going from an administrative role into a manager’s role.

The apprenticeship gave me that little bit of validation – like, look, I’ve passed this, I’ve done my apprenticeship, and I know what I’m doing.”

Nathan encountered imposter syndrome – a common feeling of self-doubt when moving into a new role. Transitioning from an administrative role to a managerial position was daunting, and he sometimes questioned whether he was underqualified. However, completing structured training and earning qualifications reassured him that he had the knowledge and skills required to succeed. The apprenticeship has given him the confidence to take on leadership responsibilities and mentor others in his field.

Future Prospects and Career Progression

For Nathan, his apprenticeship is just the starting point of an exciting and evolving career in data. Having already developed a strong foundation in data analysis, Power BI, SQL, and automation, he is now looking ahead to Higher-Level apprenticeships and additional training opportunities to further enhance his expertise.

The skills Nathan has gained will not only enhance his current role but will also unlock new career opportunities in data analysis, business intelligence, and even senior leadership positions. With data playing an increasingly critical role in decision-making across industries, professionals with expertise in data management, analytics, and automation are in high demand.

Encouragement for Future Apprentices

Nathan strongly encourages anyone considering an apprenticeship to take the leap, no matter their background or career stage.

“My class is massively diverse in seniority levels. We’ve got people just starting their careers in data and others who have been in their roles for years, just getting that solid foundation. Don’t be worried. Don’t be scared. Go for it.”

His training cohort includes individuals from a wide range of industries and at different career stages – some taking their first steps into the world of data, while others are seasoned professionals seeking to strengthen their expertise.

For those considering an apprenticeship, Nathan’s advice is simple: don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. You don’t need a background in data to succeed – just curiosity and a willingness to learn. Learning something new can feel daunting, but patience is key. Growth takes time, and challenges are part of the process. Every lesson, every project, and every hands-on experience adds up, creating a skill set that will remain valuable for years to come. Apprenticeships don’t just provide immediate opportunities – they lay the groundwork for long-term success in industries where data-driven decision-making is becoming increasingly vital.

Final Thoughts

Data apprenticeships are not just for those at the beginning of their careers – they are a powerful opportunity for anyone looking to gain valuable skills, advance in their profession, and contribute to meaningful, data-driven work. Whether you are taking your first steps into the industry or looking to develop new expertise, a data apprenticeship could be the key to unlocking long-term career success in a world increasingly shaped by data and technology.