From Self-Taught to Distinction: Barry’s Apprenticeship Journey

Starting my data science degree apprenticeship was one of the most important decisions of my career.

I had spent more than twenty years in technical roles, from IT engineering to software development, data engineering and data analysis. Although I had trained extensively, I had no formal qualification to show the depth of my knowledge. I also knew that the advanced mathematics that underpin data science were a gap in my skill set. Professionally the apprenticeship offered a chance to strengthen an area that mattered deeply to my work. Personally, it felt like the right time to finally invest in myself. I now serve as Head of the Data Analyst Profession in HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), leading a community of more than 600 analysts and helping shape how we use data to protect revenue. I could see more and more areas where data science could make a genuine difference to the department. The degree felt like a natural next step.

The learning journey was demanding but incredibly rewarding. My final project investigated offshore financial irregularities in a bulk data leak and it became the culmination of everything I had learned. It allowed me to bring together a range of techniques and approaches in one place and to see the real value of applying data science to complex tax risks. I also loved our AI module where I built an image classification model to identify brain aneurysms. Experiences like these widened my perspective and gave me the confidence to identify new opportunities for HMRC to use data science more effectively. They also helped me understand the technology and infrastructure we need so that analysts can apply these techniques in practice. This knowledge now informs how I lead the profession and how I support others through initiatives like the HMRC Data Science Accelerator.

Balancing the apprenticeship with work and family life was tough. During the three and a half years I was promoted, I became a grandad, I had major surgery, and I lost both of my parents. My dad had been looking forward to my graduation more than anyone. He talked about it often and he was immensely proud of what I was doing. He passed away in July, ten days after receiving a cancer diagnosis. On graduation day in York Minster, I carried him with me in my thoughts. Walking through York in my cap and gown, meeting my classmates for the first time, and celebrating all we had achieved was emotional but uplifting.

Receiving the Vice Chancellor’s Achievement Award was an unexpected honour. The special dinner that followed was unforgettable. My wife Amy and I arrived to music from an orchestra, a drinks reception and a wonderful meal. Sitting with the Lord Mayor of York, the Vice Chancellor and other dignitaries was humbling and their recognition meant a great deal.

I achieved a First Class degree with honours and a distinction in my apprenticeship and it has changed both my work and my personal life. It strengthened my confidence, deepened my resilience and reminded me that you are never too old to grow. It also required sacrifices. I spent many Christmas holidays immersed in assignments because it was the only quiet time I had. Looking ahead to a Christmas with no deadlines feels like a gift in itself.

For anyone considering a digital apprenticeship, my message is simple. Start. You can make it work and it may open doors you never expected. There are apprenticeships at many levels, so find the one that fits you. Many people are surprised to learn that apprenticeships are open to people of all ages. If you are gaining new knowledge, you can apply. I am so glad that I took the step. It strengthened my future, enriched my present and helped me grow in ways I never imagined.