We are a focused team making a genuine difference. These are some of the key skills our people demonstrate:
Back to iTS Computing overview
Meet our people
These are our current and former Apprentices
Team members
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“You don't need your whole life planned out. You just need a direction, people in your corner, work that doesn't bore you, and the confidence to own being a bit of a nerd. ITS gives you all of that, great craic and the ability to handle the chaos.”
Jamie Clarke, Engineering Lead
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“Working here has been really good and I've gained great real life work experience since I started in ITS Computing which I wouldn’t have got if I didn’t choose this apprenticeship ”
Callum O'Neill, Junior Developer
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“ITS has been hugely supportive of me and my studies whilst teaching me a great deal about how the industry works. I definitely recommend pursuing an apprenticeship with ITS if you have a passion for IT.”
Rory McArdle, Apprentice
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“Become addicted to self-improvement and never shy away from hard work.”
Fraser Charnock, Junior Developer
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“I went from working in a chip shop to building software for a living. There's no single route into tech — an internship gave me the opportunity to prove that.”
Russell Lyness, Senior Engineer
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“ITS has provided me with a supportive and inspiring environment that has allowed me to develop my professional skills. I am thankful that I have been provided the opportunity to work with a dedicated team that has pushed me to learn and grow.”
Callum Magennis, Junior Developer
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“Working at ITS Computing has shown me the real impact technology can have, giving me the chance to contribute to systems that genuinely support people, organisations, and essential public services every day.”
Stephen Malcolmson, Junior Developer
Case Study
Fraser and Stephen's career journeys
With limited IT qualifications but a strong interest in technology, we found it difficult to gain an opportunity within the IT industry. After seeing a level 5 apprenticeship position at ITS Computing advertised through Belfast Met, we applied.
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GCSEs - Fraser
I achieved 10 GCSEs, with over half focusing on IT and creative or design subjects. These included ICT, Extended ICT Awards, Digital Technologies, Technology and Design, and Art. The remaining subjects — Double Award Science, Maths, and RS
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GCSEs - Stephen
I completed GCSE qualifications in subjects including Maths, English, Science, History, Technology, Religious Studies, Business Studies and ICT, with a particular interest in technology-related subjects and problem solving.
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A-Levels - Fraser
I chose not to pursue A-Levels. Instead, I enrolled in a Level 3 Data Practitioner course at Belfast Met, which I felt was better suited to the career path I wanted to follow.
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A-Levels - Stephen
I studied History, Moving Image Arts, Philosophy and Ethics, During this time, I developed skills in communication, teamwork and problem solving, while also gaining experience working in structured and disciplined environments
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Wider School Life - Fraser
Outside of my studies, I took part in football and rugby clubs. I also developed a personal interest in technology during this time, teaching myself how to build my own gaming computer.
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Wider school life - Stephen
During the Apprenticeship, I developed a strong interest in technology and creative hobbies, particularly 3D printing and tabletop gaming. I am also involved in the Northern Ireland Warhammer 40K community and had a keen interest in American football
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Your next steps after school - Fraser
My plan is to continue building a career in IT, expanding my skills and knowledge through my work at iTS Computing.
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Your next steps after school - Stephen
After leaving school, I went on to study an Extended National Diploma in Public Services while working part-time in a range of retail roles before moving into full-time employment within IT-focused environments.
Words from Russell Lyness
Advice from one of our Senior Software Developer
Advice for a 16-Year-Old About Education
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Don't feel pressured to follow the traditional route - there are multiple valid paths into a successful career, whether that's A-Levels, a BTEC, an apprenticeship, or something else entirely
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If your results aren't what you hoped for, it really isn't the end of the road - I didn't go to university, and I still built a career I'm proud of
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Get involved in team sports or group activities - the teamwork and communication skills you build outside the classroom are just as valuable as what you learn in it
Advice for next steps after school
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Don't rule out alternatives to university - I completed a BTEC in Computing and came out with a house, a car and a full-time role, without any student debt
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Look out for internship and work placement opportunities - they can be the foot in the door that changes everything
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Be willing to work hard and juggle multiple commitments - I was studying, working a job and doing an internship at the same time, and it paid off
Suitability
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Problem solving
At its core, software development is about working things out, if you enjoy a challenge, you'll take to it naturally.
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Teamwork
You'll be working as part of a close-knit team, collaborating on projects that have a real impact on people's lives.
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Communication
Whether you're working with colleagues or clients, being able to explain your thinking clearly makes a real difference to the quality of what you deliver.