Platform Housing Group has officially welcomed six new apprentices into its pioneering Digital Futures Academy programme, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive recruitment, digital skills development, and innovation within the social housing sector.
Launched in November 2024, with applications opening in February 2025, the Digital Futures Academy was met with significant interest from young people and career changers alike. Over 150 applications were submitted, with 35 shortlisted for assessment days. From this highly competitive process, six apprentices were selected to begin their journey into digital and data technology careers.
The successful candidates are:
- Ismail Farah (Leicester)
- James Pearson (Droitwich)
- Harvey Bass (Worcester)
- Matthew Elliot (Solihull)
- Latisha Bailey (Birmingham)
- Mashood Khan (Birmingham)
A new pathway into digital and data careers
The Digital Futures Academy apprenticeship programme has been designed to provide alternative career pathways for individuals who may not wish to follow the traditional university route. It is open to people from diverse backgrounds, including those who are neurodiverse, seeking a career change, or motivated to develop practical skills by working directly in the sector.
The initiative focuses on developing in-demand skills in areas such as:
- Digital transformation in housing
- Data management and analysis
- Customer experience enhancement through technology
- Cyber security and IT infrastructure
By embedding apprentices into real-world projects from the outset, Platform Housing Group ensures that participants gain both technical expertise and workplace experience, preparing them for long-term careers in the digital economy.
Building the digital workforce of the future
The launch of the academy marks an important step in addressing the digital skills gap across the housing and construction industries. Apprentices will be contributing to projects that directly enhance resident services, improve data-driven decision-making, and support the ongoing modernisation of housing services.
John Wegulin, Chair of the Board at Platform Housing Group, commented: “We are incredibly proud to welcome the new apprentices. The Digital Futures Academy reflects our commitment to creating meaningful, long-term careers for people who might otherwise be overlooked in the tech sector. By investing in individuals with potential and passion, regardless of background, we’re not only building digital capability—we’re fostering real social impact.”
Jon Cocker, Chief Information Officer at Platform Housing Group, added: “Welcoming this new group of apprentices is a proud moment for us. The Digital Futures Academy is about more than skills development—it’s about creating a culture of innovation and inclusion. These apprentices bring fresh perspectives, which is what we need to keep improving services for our customers.”
Supporting innovation in the social housing sector
As digital transformation in social housing accelerates, programmes such as the Digital Futures Academy are essential in ensuring organisations have the workforce needed to implement new technologies. From smart housing solutions to advanced data platforms, the sector requires skilled professionals who can apply digital tools to enhance resident experience and operational efficiency.
By offering structured training, mentorship, and career development opportunities, Platform Housing Group is setting a strong example of how the housing sector can embrace innovation while creating inclusive pathways into digital careers.
Future-proofing housing through skills investment
The Digital Futures Academy highlights how investment in people and digital skills can directly contribute to future-proofing the social housing sector. By nurturing talent from diverse backgrounds, the programme ensures that digital transformation is not only technically robust but also socially inclusive.
As the six new apprentices begin their journey, the academy stands as a model of best practice in bridging the gap between education, employment, and industry demand—ensuring that the next generation of digital professionals can thrive in housing and beyond.
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