Launch of pioneering initiative to develop the next generation of Exeter’s data scientists

Exeter was recently named among the top 10 cities for future tech hubs, and the new Exeter Data Information Science Collaborative (E-DISC) brings together leading city organisations to develop the city’s technical data analytical skills for the future.

Under the collaboration, organisations such as the Met Office, Exeter College, Exeter City Futures, Exeter City Council, the University of Exeter and the Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust are taking part in a new Data Analytics Apprenticeship scheme.

Each partner is passionate about the use of data analytics and information science and committed to developing essential technical skills and talent to meet priority skills gaps. 

The new Data Analytics Apprenticeship offers a unique training opportunity in the Greater Exeter area where apprentices will not only follow the new standards in Data Analytics, but they will also come together as a group and collaborate to use their skills to address city-wide challenges at the Exeter City Futures Hub.

Glenn Woodcock, Exeter City Futures CEO and Founder, said “This innovative venture is another fantastic achievement for Exeter, and demonstrates its commitment to establishing itself as an analytical city.

“E-DISC will help to boost the analytical skills of our young citizens and provide them with the essential tools that unlock their capability for making change locally.”

Rob Bosworth, Vice Principal, Exeter College, said: “This is part of a much broader skills escalator scheme, where the University and the College is driving the digital and data skills agenda and creating an ecosystem of technically trained information scientists.

The recent tech hubs analysis shows that Exeter is identified as being one of the top 10 cities for tech vacancies, with one in five vacancies in Devon being tech based over the last year.”

There are already three Data Analyst Apprenticeship vacancies live under the innovative project for data analysts at the Met Office, Exeter College, and Exeter City Futures.

The launch of this ground-breaking initiative took place at the home of Exeter City Futures, Southernhay West, on Wednesday, February 7^th.

 Launch of Pioneering Initiative to Build Exeter’s Next Generation of Data Scientists, pictured (from left), Steve Mariadas, Data Digital Lead, Exeter College, Kathryn White, Innovation Manager, University of Exeter, Charlie Ewen, Director of Technology and Chief Information Officer, Met Office, John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive, Exeter College, Ella Fielding, Apprentice Ambassador, Exeter College, Chris Tidman, Chief Financial Officer, Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Karime Hassan, Chief Executive and Growth Director, Exeter City Council, and Glenn Woodcock, Exeter City Futures CEO and Founder.

Inspiring Apprentices - Apprentice Ambassador Ella addresses the launch of E-DISC, sharing her inspiring personal experience of being an Apprentice.