The first group of 10 has come on board
It's been four months since our students started the first Business Analysis (BA) Development Programme at DVLA. The programme is part of the Centre of Digital Excellence which was set up in 2018, aimed at recruiting and developing talent in a number of digital areas. We welcomed our first ten students in September and set about immersing them in all things BA. The group is a good mix, with 50% new to DVLA and the others moving over from other parts of the agency.
The students hit the ground running, starting with a 3 week boot camp where they were immersed into the DVLA culture and introduced to the foundations of BA. They were set challenges and tasks and worked through multiple BA methodologies and techniques. We also started preparing the students for their first British Computer Society (BCS) module - the Foundation in BA.
After boot camp it was straight to work, letting them start using their newly learned tools and techniques to help deliver front line digital services for the agency. The feedback from the software development teams has been great, and shows how quickly the students have started to add real value
Gaining experience and qualifications
Our first group has successfully completed their BCS Foundation in BA module and have started their journey to achieve an International Diploma in BA. We are incredibly proud of what our candidates have achieved so far and the effort our team have put in to help them along their path.
We took time before Christmas to review their progress with them and see how much they've learned and reflect on how their confidence has grown. It's been a busy few months but they're also looking forward to what comes next.
Vicky Goldsbury, one of our first students said:
The BA development programme has given me the opportunity to be totally immersed in a new development challenge and taken me right out of my comfort zone. It’s got a great mix of on the job learning and formal qualifications. Pair that with the support and knowledge we’ve had from our peers and the wider DVLA community, has meant it’s been a great scheme to be part of so far.
Next steps for our students
In the next module, our students will continue studies with BCS, including Requirements Engineering, Systems Development and an introduction to programming. They will also work on our programme to create a digital future.
What’s next for the scheme
The scheme has proved incredibly successful. As well as all candidates passing their first module, which is a great personal boost for them, they are also able to help with developing DVLA’s frontline services which will help get things done quicker for customers
We are now sharing knowledge with other organisations and government departments who have expressed an interest in the programme. If you have an interest in becoming a Business Analyst, keep an eye on the Civil Service Jobs website where all our opportunities will be advertised.