Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a job which includes training to industry standards.

BLD is proud to be the training provider of the following apprenticeships:

Our apprenticeship training programmes enable apprentices to train and study whilst being in paid employment with a relevant employer.  Apprentices combine their hands-on work role with off-the-job training, delivered by our experts in the Policing, Digital Forensic and Fraud Investigation fields.  We follow blended learning models featuring face-to-face sessions, webinars and online self-study modules.  Apprentices’ learning is our passion along with our commitment to supporting employers to develop their workforce along the pathway of achieving excellence in their specific domains.

Trusted Education Partner of the Serious Fraud Office SFO
Apprenticeships
Trusted Education Partner of the Metropolitan Police MET MPS

DIGITAL FORENSICS TECHNICIAN APPRENTICESHIP (Level 4)

In our two-year Digital Forensics Technician apprenticeship, students move from the fundamentals of digital forensic technical knowledge and principles to building up a more complex understanding and competency.

In the second year, students continue their studies into an increasing knowledge synthesis, culminating in hands-on digital forensics investigation workshops involving case studies. Support is continued throughout the students’ assessment period to facilitate the graduation of outstanding digital forensics technical officers.

Throughout the two years, our course follows a blended approach of lectures, practical workshops and tutorials, with the added value of software certification – our programme of study includes Cellebrite and ADF tool certification.  This ensures a meaningful pathway to developing outstanding proficiency in the field of a digital forensics technician.

Watch our video below for more information.

The full list of industry standards for this apprenticeship can be found on the Institute of Apprenticeships website, using the following link:  https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/digital-forensic-technician-v1-1

COUNTER FRAUD INVESTIGATOR APPRENTICESHIP (Level 4)

Our two-year Counter Fraud Apprenticeship Programme is a comprehensive training initiative designed to prepare individuals for a career in counter fraud and investigative roles. This apprenticeship combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, offering apprentices the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills essential for combating fraud in a variety of sectors.

The programme provides sustained progression through the industry standards of knowledge, skills and behaviours required for accomplished Fraud Investigators. Apprentices become proficient at driving their investigations from referral through to conclusion.

Key learning areas include:

  • Specialised Investigative Techniques: Development of dynamic and contemporary skills for conducting in-depth fraud investigations.
  • Legislation and Regulatory Compliance: Comprehending the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding fraud and gaining the expertise required to apply legal principles to fraud investigations.
  • Communication and Report Writing: Acquiring enhanced communication skills for effectively conveying investigation findings. Underpinned by expertise in writing comprehensive investigative reports along with practice on presenting findings in a clear and concise manner to diverse audiences.
  • Recognising and Utilising Digital and Forensic Opportunities: Learning to navigate and analyse digital evidence in a rapidly evolving technological landscape with exploration of how to apply them in an investigation.

Our apprenticeship training team consists of experienced investigators from law enforcement backgrounds. All the trainers are actively involved in investigation work, covering areas such as insolvency, intelligence fraud, cyber fraud, cryptocurrency fraud, banking fraud, insurance fraud, distribution fraud and credit card fraud. 

Furthermore, BLD is at the forefront of training in digital investigation. Our team consists of experts in the digital investigation domains. Combined, the team assures apprentices receive and are continually exposed to up-to-date techniques and happening case studies throughout their training.

The full list of industry standards and duties of a Counter Fraud Investigator can be found on the Institute of Apprenticeships website, using the link below.

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/counter-fraud-investigator-v1-0

POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER (PCSO) APPRENTICESHIP (Level 4)

In an era where the demands on policing are more complex and challenging than ever, the BLD Community Policing /PCSO one-year apprenticeship stands out as a pioneering initiative designed to prepare individuals for a career at the heart of community safety and support. This apprenticeship offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern policing. Aspiring Community Policing Officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) are given an unparalleled opportunity to embark on a career path that is both rewarding and essential to the fabric of society.

Course Overview

The BLD Community Policing/PCSO apprenticeship is meticulously structured to cover a broad spectrum of topics essential for effective policing in the 21st century. The curriculum spans from foundational legal knowledge, community engagement strategies, to advanced conflict resolution techniques. It also encompasses specialised training in areas such as digital crime prevention, safeguarding vulnerable populations, and emergency response. The course is designed not just to educate but also to instil the values of integrity, empathy, and professionalism which are crucial for the community facing role.

Rationale

The rationale behind this innovative apprenticeship programme stems from a critical need to adapt the training and development of staff to the rapidly changing social landscape. With the rise of digital crime, increased community diversity, and heightened public expectations, it is imperative that first responders are not only well-versed in traditional policing techniques but are also equipped with the skills and understanding to navigate modern-day challenges. This programme aims to produce a new generation of community focused officers and PCSOs who are as adept at using technology to fight crime as they are at providing compassionate support to their communities.

PCSO

Learning Model

At the core of the BLD Community Policing/PCSO apprenticeship is a dedicated self-study package, thoughtfully designed to accommodate the varied schedules and learning paces of its students. This flexible approach allows apprentices to immerse themselves in their studies at times most convenient for them, ensuring that learning is both effective and sustainable over the year-long course. The self-study materials are crafted by experts in the field, incorporating interactive modules, real-world case studies, and reflective exercises to enhance understanding and retention. Regular assessments and feedback sessions are integrated into the program to monitor progress and ensure that all apprentices are on track to achieving their learning objectives. Interweaved into the programme are face to face workshops focussing on real life scenarios and consolidation of learning.

This apprenticeship represents a significant step forward in the preparation of individuals for the demands of front-line policing, offering an accessible, comprehensive, and flexible route into a career that makes a real difference in communities across the country.

The full list of industry standards and duties of a Police Community Support Officer for this apprenticeship can be found on the Institute of Apprenticeships website, using the link below.

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/police-community-support-officer-v1-1

INTELLIGENCE ANALYST APPRENTICESHIP (Level 4)

Our 18-month Intelligence Analyst Apprenticeship combines theoretical knowledge with practical, scenario-based exercises suitable for a range of public and private sector organisations. 

This training package provides analysts with a comprehensive range of analytical techniques that can be adapted to suit organisational situations and constraints. 

Apprentices will develop confidence in their abilities, be able to adapt to rapidly changing situations, maintain their objectivity and recognise that intelligence activity is a cyclical process and may not bring about a successful conclusion. 

We take a blended learning approach using lectures, practical exercises, and tutorials.  This is designed to ensure knowledge and competence requirements are achieved, covering the full spectrum of intelligence analysis skills.  These will include the Intelligence Cycle, collection planning, the application of structured analytical techniques, and the dissemination process.

Key learning areas will include:

  • Analytical theory and process: an in-depth understanding of intelligence, and how it is generated and evaluated using common standards and techniques.
  • Influencing Factors: greater understanding of the client environment, recognising key threat areas and organisational priorities.
  • Identify intelligence gaps: and opportunities for further analysis, such as developing personal knowledge and identifying a range of credible sources, whilst recognising the need to review existing data.
  • Using multiple source intelligence products: identifying and utilising all resources available within the organisation, including Open Source Intelligence.
Intelligence Analyst Apprentice
  • Developing critical thinking skills: being aware of and mitigating bias, through objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgement or recommendation.
  • Written and oral dissemination: develop and improve skills in delivering intelligence products and briefings that will influence organisation activity.
  • Forming assessments and recommendations: use competing hypotheses to make assessments and form recommendations.

BLD is at the forefront of training in Intelligence Research and Analysis.  Combined, the team assures apprentices receive and are continually exposed to up-to-date techniques and happening case studies throughout their training.

The full list of industry standards and duties of an Intelligence Analyst can be found on the Institute of Apprenticeships website, using the link below.

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/intelligence-analyst-v1-2

Contact us at registrar@bluelightsdigital.com or phone Lilian on 07462 815126

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