Purple Beard

Purple Beard is an award-winning EdTech training provider and Ofsted ‘good’ provider that focuses on developing highly skilled tech talent through apprenticeships and bootcamps. Established in January 2021, the organisation reports having trained over nine hundred individuals, with seventy percent progressing into a new role or increasing their earning potential. Its apprenticeship offer is aimed at the tech sector and includes programmes such as Business Analyst (Level 4), Content Creator (Level 3), Data Technician (Level 3), Digital Accessibility Specialist (Level 4), Digital Learning Designer (Level 5) and Data Engineer (Level 5). These apprenticeships are delivered virtually over 15–30 months, typically requiring 6 to 8 hours per week of off-the-job learning, and are funded through standard levy and co-investment models. Purple Beard also runs tech-focused bootcamps of up to 16 weeks that enable individuals to build sector-specific skills and fast-track to interviews with local employers. For employers, the provider offers support with hiring apprentices, training existing staff via apprenticeships and bootcamps, and accessing a diverse pool of tech talent. Programmes are designed and led by industry experts and emphasise quality, accessibility, innovation and an engaging learning experience focused on employability and lifelong learning.