When Robert Wheeler joined Arken five years ago as a Customer Support Executive, the last thing he expected was for his career to lead into data analytics.

After progressing into a Business Intelligence role, he developed a keen interest in the field, building on this through Kaplan's Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship.

The programme has helped him build on his existing experience while developing a more structured approach to data analysis.

Learning data analytics on the job

Robert’s move into Business Intelligence followed around a year in customer support, when he transitioned into a role focused on reporting and data insights.

His responsibilities included analysing product usage data and building dashboards, but much of his knowledge was developed as projects arose.

“I learnt what was needed project by project,” Robert explains. “While that gave me practical experience, I recognised there were gaps in my overall knowledge as a data analyst.”

Although he felt confident with technical systems and ETL processes, he recognised the need to deepen his skills in statistical analysis and communicating data insights more effectively, which led to him enrolling on the apprenticeship.

Strengthening the foundations

The programme has helped Robert build a more rounded skillset and greater confidence in his approach. Since starting the apprenticeship, he has strengthened his existing knowledge while expanding into more advanced techniques.

“The apprenticeship has helped me reinforce the core principles of data analysis while introducing me to new concepts,” he says.

Alongside developing a structured understanding of the data lifecycle and visualisation, Robert has broadened his technical capabilities through tools such as Python and R Studio, including exploration of machine learning.

It has also enabled him to achieve additional industry-recognised certifications, including Microsoft Office Associate, PL-300, and DataCamp career tracks.

“Having both the theoretical knowledge and practical application has helped ensure my skills stay relevant and adaptable.”

Balancing work and study

Before beginning the programme, Robert’s main concern was managing his time effectively while balancing work and study.

He overcame this by establishing a clear routine and setting aside dedicated time each week during working hours for his apprenticeship.

This structure has helped him stay on track of his learning while continuing to develop professionally in his role.

Applying learning in the workplace

One of the biggest benefits of the apprenticeship for Robert has been the opportunity to immediately apply new knowledge to real business projects.

He says the programme has changed the way he approaches his work by introducing a more structured methodology.

“Following the data analysis lifecycle means projects are much more goal-led and delivered more effectively,” he explains.

It has also encouraged him to think more innovatively about the opportunities data can provide.

Previously, much of his work focused on descriptive analysis. Now, he's exploring predictive analysis and identifying new ways data can support business decision-making.

Alongside this, improved approaches to data cleaning and handling have increased his confidence in reporting while ensuring work remains ethical and aligned with relevant regulations.

Seeing immediate results

Robert has already experienced the impact of his development in the workplace.

One of his earliest apprenticeship projects involved producing a descriptive analysis for a business stakeholder.

Although the original request was relatively straightforward, his enhanced use of Excel tools and improved data visualisation impressed his Team Leader.

More recently, he's been working on larger, ongoing projects that have received positive feedback from senior stakeholders during the planning stages.

The structured approach developed through the apprenticeship has helped establish clearer project goals and stronger engagement across the business.

Learning with support from Kaplan

Robert describes the support from his Talent Coach, Darren Stevens, as one of the most valuable aspects of the apprenticeship.

Regular monthly catch-ups provide an opportunity to review portfolio progress, discuss workplace projects, and receive feedback from an experienced data professional.

Robert particularly values the balance between encouragement and constructive challenge in these conversations.

"Darren has been very supportive throughout my apprenticeship. He helped validate my career goals while also challenging my thinking to help me continue developing."

This guidance has also translated into practical skills. For example, Darren encouraged Robert to explore logistic regression in R Studio through manageable, hands-on learning that built both his confidence and technical ability.

Three study tips from Robert

Having successfully balanced work and study, Robert has some practical advice for others completing a data apprenticeship:

• Make the most of every learning opportunity. Explore additional courses, attend webinars, and use all the resources available to build your knowledge beyond the core programme.
• Set aside dedicated study time each week. A consistent routine makes it much easier to stay on top of coursework and project work.
• Apply your learning wherever you can. Looking for opportunities to use new skills in your day-to-day role helps reinforce your understanding while strengthening your portfolio.

Looking ahead

Although he's still completing the apprenticeship, Robert is already thinking about the next stage of his career.

He's particularly interested in continuing to develop in areas such as AI and data science.

Reflecting on his journey so far, he's proud of how much his confidence and technical capability have grown. The apprenticeship has strengthened his foundation in data analytics while giving him the skills and confidence to explore more advanced techniques.

As he continues his learning, Robert is looking forward to applying those skills to increasingly complex business challenges and supporting data-driven decision-making across the organisation.

Develop your data career with Kaplan

If you're looking to build your analytical skills or progress into areas such as data science and AI, a data apprenticeship can provide the knowledge and confidence to take the next step.

Explore Kaplan's data and tech apprenticeships to discover how structured, workplace learning can support your career development.