Work+

Applicant
Employer

Cloud Computing Apprenticeship Options

  • Employer Profile

    Options

  • Apprenticeship Type

    Software & Computing > Level 5-6

  • Positions

    3

  • Location

    Linen Loft, 27 – 37 Adelaide St, Belfast, BT2 8FE

  • Salary

    £18,000

  • Start date

  • Location Type

    Office

Job Description

Role: Options Apprenticeship Programme

Location: Belfast

Salary: Competitive

Join the Options Apprenticeship team in Belfast!

Who are we?

Options is a leading managed services and IT infrastructure products provider to the global capital markets community. Founded in 1993, the company began life as a hedge fund technology services provider. Today over 200 firms globally leverage the Options platform, including the leading global investment banks, hedge funds and exchanges. We currently employ over 400 employees worldwide and are continuing to grow across offices in New York, Chicago, Belfast, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Why Options?

Global travel:

• We have offices in New York, Toronto, London, Belfast, Dublin and across Asia.

Continuous career development opportunities:

• We provide professional skills development and technical training

The chance to be a part of a self-sufficient, successful team:

• The Options team operates in a fast paced environment with endless opportunities for innovation and forward thinking.

Competitive salary:

• In addition to a competitive salary, Options reward employees with a range of bonus incentives and benefits.

Working for us

The positions will be based around apprenticeship requirements, per your course, paid and based in Belfast initially, although there will be opportunities to gain experience from company offices such as New York, Hong Kong, Singapore, Auckland and London for those who have successfully completed their apprenticeship.

We welcome applications from a broad range of disciplines including those with technical and engineering backgrounds, as well as science, business, mathematics, marketing and finance. We have a fresh new team expanding in our Belfast office and we want to hear from candidates that are motivated, self-driven and have a passion to learn and develop their skills in the world of financial technology.

At Options we are focused on creating a learning environment that enables you to develop and flourish in all aspects of your work. You own your career, you choose your own path, and we provide the opportunities to make it happen.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Strong research, writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and changeable working environment.
• Customer service experience (comfortable working with senior management and business owners).
• Exceptional organisational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Desire to travel and see the world.
• Ability to work independently and manage your own projects in a professional manner.
• Solid competency in the following: Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Candidates must successfully secure a position at the relevant apprenticeship training provider

Desirable Criteria

• Previous start-up, technology or business experience.
• A passion for start-ups, innovation and financial technology.
• Strong interpersonal skills with client facing experience.
• Project management skills and proven ability to manage own workload.

(In the case of applications for technical positions, examples of previous work are encouraged.)

All applicants MUST be willing to travel, pending availability during studies.

Applicable courses

Whilst you are applying to an employer through Workplus you must apply directly to the training providers to secure your place on the apprenticeship course.

Cloud Computing TechnologiesSouth Eastern Regional College

Description

You will complete a Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing Technologies along with work related qualifications over a three-year period. The Foundation Degree (FD) in Cloud Computing Technologies is aimed at meeting the local demand of Cloud experts in Northern Ireland. It will cover a range of computing specialisms allowing successful students to follow different career paths. Enter a short description here.

Modules

The Foundation Degree consists of 40 credits (normally 2 modules) per semester in Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3. 

This programme is based on a hybrid learning model with a focus on face-to-face delivery.

Modules include:

  • Computational Mathematics

  • Computer Systems

  • Programming Fundamentals

  • Cloud Fundamentals

  • Web Technologies and Applications 

  • Data, Information and SQL Software Testing Data Analytics and Visualisation

  • Cloud Development

  • Innovative Delivery of Mobile Applications

  • Work-based Learning                         

Assessment:

  • Students are assessed using a range of different methods. These include examinations, coursework, project-based learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies. This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.                  

Award

Foundation Degree (FD) in Cloud Computing Technologies

Validated By

Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme.

Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.

You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.

Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements  

  • GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

  • GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND  

  • 2 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

UCAS

A minimum of 48 UCAS points:

  • A levels  OR

  • Level 3 Diploma

Access Diploma

  • Access to Higher Education Diploma with an overall average of 45+%

English Language Requirements for International students:

  • Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level

  • B2 IELTS 6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)

  • PTE 51 Or an approved equivalent test in English

Equivalent qualifications include:

  • Grade C (or above) in GCSE English

  • Successful completion of a Level 3 Vocational Programme with assessments completed in English Language

  • Essential Skills in Literacy (Level 2)

  • ESOL Level 2 

Tier 4 Students:

  • SERC will only accept a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for issuing a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Admissions

  • Successful completion of the admissions process

APEL

  • Provide evidence of ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the accreditation of prior experiential learning. Further details on APEL can be found in the admissions section of our website

Duration

3

Start Date

Monday 16 September 2024

End Date

Saturday 28 August 2027

Progression Pathway

Successful completion of this course could lead to either a career in the computing industry or to related degree programmes.  SERC offer a 1 year degree top-up for this programme.

Cloud Computing, Analytics and Security for IndustrySouthern Regional College

Description

The Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing, Analytics and Security for Industry forms the core of our Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme, which provides a clear and achievable progression route enabling students to train to a high level whilst gaining a professional qualification.

The programme prepares students for careers in industries that rely heavily on cloud-based technologies and data-driven decision-making. Graduates will gain computing and transferrable skills which will enable them to develop new concepts, ideas and solutions that will add value and inform the strategic direction of an organisation.

Upon successful interview, individuals will be placed with a company for four days a week while attending the College one day a week. The HLA will also provide the opportunity to work on live projects within an IT company and gain work-based learning experience while developing the transferable skills essential to succeed in the industry.

There are approximately 360 hours per year student contact time, including blended delivery, over a three year period. Students are required to attend the Southern Regional College Portadown Campus during term-time, one full day per week. There will also be an expectation of independent study also required.

All staff delivering on this programme are highly experienced with an extensive skillset across all computing disciplines.

Please note this is exactly the same course as the part-time Foundation Degree in Cloud Computing, Analytics and Security for Industry - however the HLA element (1 day in College, 4 days in industry per week) ensures that no fees are applicable.

Modules

  • Object-Oriented Programming Fundamentals

  • Introduction to Networking

  • Database Design and Development for Cloud

  • IoT Development

  • Introduction to Virtualisation Technologies

  • Mobile Development

  • Cloud Computing

  • Cyber Security

  • Data Analytics

  • AI Fundamentals

  • Work Based Learning

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to this course, is evidence that the learner is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in place allocation.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2024.

  • Applicants must have attained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A Levels, National Awards, Access or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.

  • Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).

  • For those entering a Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA), employers may further enhance the entry criteria at their discretion. All applicants for HLAs will be interviewed by prospective employers to decide their suitability prior to being employed by a company. Each the applicant must secure employment with a Northern Ireland based company with a minimum contract of 21 hours. Entrance to HLAs is subject to meeting DfE Operational requirements.

  • Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Policy.

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

To find out more about the application process for Higher Level Apprenticeships please see Information on Higher Level Apprenticeships.

Duration

3

Start Date

Monday 16 September 2024

End Date

Sunday 27 June 2027

Progression Pathway

Students may wish to progress onto the Level 6 BSc (Hons) Degree in Computing for Industry offered by SRC (in collaboration with Open University) at the College's Portadown campus. Students may also progress to other degree programmes but it is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s admission and progression requirements.

On completion of this course, students will have gained a strong foundation in cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity. This qualification opens up various career opportunities in industries that heavily rely on cloud technologies, data-driven decision-making, and robust security measures. Potential roles may include:

  • Cloud Solutions Architect

  • Cloud Security Specialist

  • Data Analyst

  • Business Intelligence Analyst

  • Data Engineer

Software and Cloud Development with Data AnalysisBelfast Metropolitan College

Description

This two and a half year work-based programme enables you to ‘earn while you learn’. Software development is one of the leading areas of ICT in Northern Ireland and there a predicted growth in the areas of Cloud development as well as Data Analytics. You will gain this qualification along with practical skills and relevant work experience in the workplace which will open new career opportunities for you.  

You will be taught by highly experienced staff in our computing labs that are fully equipped with industry standard hardware and software. This course will provide you with software development skills in cloud, web and database development as well as data analytics techniques used in the real world. There is also a requirement to undertake a work-based learning module. You will also have an opportunity to sit Microsoft and Comptia industrial qualifications. You will gain skills in Java, C#, HTML5, R, Python, Power BI, Azure and SQL Server. 

Please see link to OU Regulations for validated awards of the Open University.

Modules

Key Areas of study: 

  • Software Development 

  • Cloud Development 

  • Data Analytics 

  • Database Development 

  • Microsoft Azure, C#, Java, Python, SQL & PowerBI 

The Level 4 Modules are:

  • Programming and Scripting;

  • Mathematics for Computing;

  • Cloud and Cyber Security Fundamentals;

  • Database Design and Development;

  • System Design and Cloud Development;

  • Machine Learning Fundamentals

The Level 5 Modules are:

  • Advanced Programming and Web Development;

  • Distributed Apps;

  • Data Analytics and Visualisation;

  • Secure Programming and Testing;

  • Work Based Learning

Assessment:

  • This course will be assessed by examinations and coursework.

Award

Foundation Degree in Cyber Security with Cloud and Networking Infrastructure (Validated by The Open University) (FDCAD)

Validated By

Open University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

To be able to apply at this stage, you must be employed in an IT role or have an arranged an apprenticeship with an employer in IT.  

The apprenticeship is also open to people already employed in an IT. 

To apply, please email creativedigital@belfastmet.ac.uk with details of your employer and we will assist you in your application. 

64 tariff points. GCSE grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent such as Essential Skills Literacy or Numeracy. 

Duration

3

Start Date

Wednesday 11 September 2024

End Date

Saturday 12 June 2027

Progression Pathway

Students who successfully complete this course are guaranteed a place on the one-year BSc (Hons) Software, Cloud and Application Development Top-Up degree offered by Belfast Met.  

Successful completion of this course also allows for progression onto university degree courses in computing related disciplines including, but not limited to, computer science (subject to individual course requirements). 

There are also employment opportunities upon successful completion of this course. For example: 

Cloud Engineer/Developer: 

An IT professional responsible for any technological duties associated with cloud computing, including design, planning, management, maintenance and support. The cloud engineer position can be broken into multiple roles, including architect, software engineer, security engineer, systems engineer and cloud network engineer. Each position focuses on a specific type of cloud computing, rather than the technology as a whole.

This site uses cookies for general analytics but not for advertising purposes. View our cookie policy to find out more. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on our website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time.