The importance of data analytics & intelligence

The British Army currently offer a range of apprenticeships for new recruits serving in different regiments. The Royal Signals have chosen five specialist apprenticeships for their personnel. 14 Signal Regiment (near Haverfordwest in Wales) is home to some of the Royal Signals Electronic Warfare Signals Intelligence (EWSI) specialists. These operators conduct sustainable electronic warfare in support of national operations worldwide.

 Rozalyn Edge serves as an EWSI specialist, providing tactical signals intelligence to J2 assets. Whilst the Royal Signals have now chosen to offer the newly developed L3 Data Technician Apprenticeship, as it more closely aligns with their role, around 25 apprentices remained on the L4 Intelligence Analyst Apprenticeship Standard.

 Whilst balancing the demands of her challenging day-to-day role, Roz worked diligently through the deliverables required for her apprenticeship, completing tasks early, arranging for clarification where necessary and thus entered End Point Assessment well ahead of her expected end date. Roz remained diligent throughout the EPA process and was awarded a well-deserved DISTINCTION upon completion in November 2023.

 At End Point Assessment (EPA), the Intelligence Analysts are expected to complete a written test, professional interview, and academic analytical research project with presentation, before receiving their final grade. After the presentation of her project, the EPAO requested to use Roz's report submission as an exemplar piece of work for other apprentices to use as a guide to best practice. The EPAO commented: "Excellent evidence produced, strong Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours demonstrated throughout. Great outcomes achieved on all three assessment components."

 Additionally, Roz’s recommendations are now being considered for implementation at unit level by her chain of command. This hugely increases the scope of impact from this one single apprenticeship journey. Roz has also been nominated by her commanding officer for recognition as Apprentice of the year.

 The Colleges Partnership currently maintains a 100% pass rate for their Intelligence Analyst provision with 50% distinction grades so far against a national average of 38.2%. This investment into apprenticeships by the Royal Signals therefore bodes very well indeed.

Written By Steve Baines - The Colleges Partnership Regional Delivery Manager (Royal Signals North) &

 Amanda Chadwick – The Colleges Partnership Apprenticeship Coordinator (Royal Signals North)