Network75 is a combined work-and-study degree program offered by the University of South Wales (USW). It allows students to complete a fully-funded part-time degree while gaining five years of paid, hands-on industry experience with a host company in and around Cardiff.
At CCHA, we have been a host company for the programme for the last five years. Nicole Jones and Bailey Braithwaite have been with us for just under a year, working part time within the Development Team, while completing their Construction Management degrees. They share how they’ve found the first year, and why they chose to pursue this route into education and employment.
Bailey Said:
“I first found out about Network75 through a family friend who was also on the scheme, and after speaking with him, I decided to apply. The opportunity made sense to me because I could avoid student debt while gaining five years of valuable industry experience. Nine months in, I feel confident that I made the right choice.
Before my interview, I didn’t know what to expect from CCHA, but hearing that I would be joining a small, tight-knit team really appealed to me. I knew I needed to learn as much as possible about the construction industry, and being surrounded by experienced people who support each other has made a real difference.
Before joining, I was working as a lifeguard and still figuring out which career path I wanted to follow. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t completely sure what a housing association was at first, but I now see day in, day out, the hard work that goes into providing homes. Whether I’m sitting in meetings or just being in the office, it’s clear that it’s a big collaborative effort.
My first nine months have been busy, and I’ve been able to pick up so much along the way. I haven’t just gained new skills, but I’ve also been able to explore and improve skills I already had.
CCHA has also been great at helping me manage my work and study balance. During term time, I have university one day a week and a study day as well, which gives me time to complete assignments and revision. It feels very manageable, and because I’m in work more regularly than university, I often go into lectures with a basic understanding of the topics already, which gives me an advantage.
Since joining, Alex has been an amazing mentor. She has allowed me to develop at my own pace while keeping a good balance between challenging me and making sure I’m not overloaded. She has been a key part of my progression so far, and the whole Development Team has been incredibly supportive. As someone completely new to the industry, having the chance to work closely with everyone has been invaluable.
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve been given is that no question is a silly question. That mindset helps me get the most out of every situation. I’ve also been surprised by how much people interact with each other at CCHA — there are always new faces speaking with one another, and the office has an upbeat atmosphere.
My advice to anyone considering Network75 would be to push yourself out of your comfort zone, try new things and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Network75 is a great scheme that deserves more publicity. I was in a bit of a rut and unsure about my future, but this opportunity has given me a goal and a potential career.”
Adding to that, Nicole spoke about her experience so far:
“I found out about Network75 through my sister, who has just finished her third year studying accounting and finance at KLA. Seeing the benefits first-hand made me realise I wanted the same opportunity. I had been unsure about going to university because of the debt and because I wasn’t sure the environment was right for me, but Network75 offered something different: the chance to gain hands-on experience while developing the social and professional skills that will help me grow.
I chose CCHA because it is a supportive organisation that invests in young people and creates real opportunities to learn and grow. I also knew I would be valued by the team, rather than seen as just an apprentice. Coming straight from A levels in sixth form was a big step, but everyone has been so welcoming, and I feel as though I am one step ahead of those going to university full time.
I originally thought working for a housing association would feel quite formal and office-based, but the reality has been much more hands-on, site-based and supportive than I expected. It has given me real insight into the impact this work has on communities.
One of the most exciting skills I have developed so far is the confidence to take on real responsibilities. Being able to communicate clearly, manage tasks independently and make decisions that contribute to the team has made the experience genuinely rewarding. I make sure I plan ahead, manage my time and set clear priorities so I can keep on top of university deadlines while staying focused on my work tasks.
Being at university as well as work has helped me significantly, because I can see things play out in real life and understand the process hands-on. Ashley has also been a really supportive manager. He checks in regularly, offers guidance and challenges me in a professional way that helps me grow and continually improve.
The best advice I’ve been given is to take things day by day and remember that I don’t need to know everything straight away. It takes time, Rome wasn’t built in a day after all.
Looking ahead, I definitely want to continue in project management, or something within the same industry, because I really enjoy it. My advice to anyone considering Network75 would be not to put pressure on yourself to know everything immediately. I would highly recommend applying, as there are amazing opportunities and experiences to be gained.”