In today’s digital landscape, data protection and information governance have become critical risk areas for organisations across all sectors. With increasing regulatory demands and evolving threats, the need for skilled professionals in this field has never been greater. Recognising this growing skills gap, Damar Training, with the support of Act Now Training, launched its innovative Data Protection and Information Governance Apprenticeship programme in late 2022, quickly establishing itself as the leading provider in England.
The programme was developed through extensive consultation with employers, including members of the apprenticeship Trailblazer Group, to ensure it would be commercially attractive, impactful, and of the highest quality. This collaborative approach has led to excellent engagement from employers and individuals, with 243 apprentices starting the programme to date, making Damar the largest provider of this apprenticeship standard in England.
A Flexible, Comprehensive Learning Journey
What sets Damar’s apprenticeship apart is its thoughtfully designed modular structure, with carefully sequenced six-week blocks of learning that cater to diverse learning styles and organisational needs. The gradual layering of technical content and learning activity, designed with the assistance of Act Now Training, ensure that apprentices from both public and private sectors receive an outstanding foundation in the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for success in data protection roles.
The delivery model combines self-directed learning through engaging online resources with regular one-to-one coaching visits and group coaching sessions.
Extended technical workshops (underpinned by Act Now’s expertise) and quarterly review meetings provide additional support, while dedicated forums allow apprentices to stay updated with the latest developments, engage with peers, and consult with coaches.
This comprehensive approach has yielded impressive results. With a retention rate of 68%, an achievement rate of 65%, and an EPA pass rate of 95% – all above national averages – the programme demonstrates exceptional quality, particularly remarkable for a relatively new offering.
Industry-Leading Expertise
A key strength of Damar’s apprenticeship is its partnership with Act Now, an
award-winning data protection consultancy. This collaboration ensures that the programme’s content remains at the cutting edge of industry developments, including emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence regulation.
Sarah Murray, Data Protection Officer at ClearData, highlights this benefit:
“One of the particular stand-outs for me is the workshops. With the content supported by
Act Now, who have such a good reputation in this field, the workshops really put all of the theory into real-life practice.”
Real-World Impact for Employers and Apprentices
The programme serves some of the UK’s major employers, including Heathrow Airport, National Express, the BBC, Auto Trader, Betfred, and Dunelm, alongside various NHS Trusts, universities, government departments, and local councils.
For apprentices, the transformation goes beyond technical knowledge. Many begin with only basic data protection skills and limited confidence. Through the programme, they develop not only technical expertise but also a deeper understanding of the “why” behind data protection practices and the confidence to advise others with authority.
This growth translates into tangible career progression, with 99% of apprentices experiencing positive outcomes – 53% remaining in their current roles with enhanced skills, 18% securing permanent positions, and 28% gaining promotions or additional responsibilities. Some have even become data protection officers with overall responsibility for their organisation’s data protection function.
Employers benefit from immediate practical impacts. Apprentices have improved information assurance audits at Lincoln University, created artificial intelligence policies for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board, and developed triage request processes for data protection requirements at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.
Stacey Lawrence, Data Protection Manager at Manchester Airport, emphasises this value:
“The impact that both apprentices have brought to Manchester Airport has been huge. They work on the front line, to manage all enquiries, data protection breaches, and individual rights requests, and without them we simply wouldn’t be able to do the really sterling work that we do every day.”
A Future-Focused Approach
Damar continues to evolve the programme based on feedback from coaches, apprentices, and employers. Recent improvements include enhanced EPA preparation sessions, now embedded into group coaching. The company maintains close ties with the trailblazer group and leverages Act Now’s expertise to stay ahead of legislative developments.
With another 22 apprentices due to commence in April, the programme’s growth trajectory remains strong. Many employers, including Manchester Airport Group and Nottingham University Hospitals, are returning for their second or third data protection apprentice – perhaps the strongest testament to the programme’s value.
For organisations seeking to strengthen their data protection capabilities and individuals looking to build rewarding careers in this critical field, Damar Training’s Data Protection and Information Governance Apprenticeship offers a proven pathway to success.
If you would like to learn more about the DP and IG Apprenticeship, please get in touch.
