At Admiral, we’re passionate about opening doors for people at the very start of their careers, especially those who love problem solving, numbers and fresh ways of thinking. That’s why we launched our first-ever Data Analytics Apprenticeship Programme: an 18-month scheme designed to kickstart careers in data and tech, offering a university free pathway into a high skilled, future focused field.
The programme gives apprentices paid, hands-on experience within our Data and Technology teams while they work towards a fully funded Level 3 Diploma in Data Analytics delivered by ALS Training. The apprenticeship follows a hybrid model that blends time in our Cardiff HQ with dedicated learning through our specialist training provider, combining structured classroom development with meaningful real‑world experience that creates genuine business impact.
Throughout the journey, they’re supported by our Data & AI Academy, giving them access to expert-led sessions, mentorship, learning events and the wider data community. And once they complete the programme, they’ll join our Early Careers Community for ongoing support and career development. It’s all part of our commitment to helping people Grow & Progress and discover just how exciting a career in data can be.
Let’s meet the brilliant people making up our very first cohort…
Burhan: The numbers driven sports fan
Burhan has always been a lover of maths-related subjects, so a data apprenticeship felt like the natural fit. He admits he expected things to be daunting at first but quickly discovered the opposite.
“Everyone has been beyond kind and helpful,” he says. “It’s relaxed, professional and supportive. Exactly the environment where I can thrive.”
When he’s not deep in datasets, you’ll find him in the gym or playing football, padel or boxing. He’s excited to get stuck into SQL, collaborate with his team and apply his interest in numbers in a real-world setting.
Katie: The geography lover with a passion for practical learning
Katie Dickinson grew up in Cardiff and originally considered engineering at university, until she discovered apprenticeships. The opportunity to earn while learning and avoid student debt made the decision easy.
She joined Admiral drawn by our culture, wellbeing focuses and reputation for supporting early careers. She’s already explored multiple departments and discovered how much data underpins decisions across the business.
Katie loves photography, video games and taking her miniature dachshund, Levi, out for walks. She’s looking forward to building confidence with tools like Excel and getting hands-on with solving real data challenges throughout the programme.
Adam: From football pitch to SQL scripts
Bridgend-based Adam Exton leads an active lifestyle. Football, gym sessions, and caring for his expanding flock of pet chickens all keep him busy. After excelling in ICT and Media Studies, he knew a traditional university route wasn’t for him.
When he found Admiral’s apprenticeship, everything clicked.
“I’d always heard Admiral was one of the best places to work,” he says, “and the assessment centre confirmed it. The people and culture made me feel at home straight away.”
Adam is especially excited to sharpen his SQL skills, the spark that first inspired him to pursue data. And for the all-important meal deal update: BBQ chicken wrap, Oreo protein bar and Fanta Fruit Twist are his go-to.
Sion: The Marvel fan ready to make an impact
Originally from Barry and now in Cardiff, Sion Cule completed his Welsh medium A-Levels in Maths, Further Maths and Physics and wanted a learning path with real-world application. An apprenticeship ticked every box.
A dedicated Manchester United fan (despite the rollercoaster of emotions involved), Sion also loves Marvel films, Game of Thrones and Invincible. His ideal meal deal? Chicken club sandwich, sausage roll and a white Monster.
For Sion, Admiral’s reputation for innovation and culture made joining an easy decision. He’s excited to work with numbers daily and contribute to meaningful analysis that shapes decisions across the business.
A programme built for the future
This apprenticeship isn’t just a learning opportunity. It’s a strategic investment in future talent. By offering a pathway that doesn’t require a university degree, Admiral is helping to bridge technical skill gaps and open access to high-skilled roles across South Wales. We’ve got a strong history of developing early talent, with many current leaders joining straight from education and this programme builds on that legacy.
With hands on experience, tailored learning, support from our Data & AI Academy and a vibrant community, our apprentices aren’t just learning, they’re contributing from day one.
We can’t wait to see what this group achieves over the next 18 months and beyond.