Universities UK has today released a report on the Future of Degree Apprenticeships. It shows that combining a degree qualification with the real-world experience of an apprenticeship has been hugely successful and highly commended by employers. However, only one in five young people understand the application process and even fewer how the courses are actually structured. This report recommends making more Degree Apprenticeships available and campaigning to raise awareness of the fantastic opportunities they offer.
University Alliance CEO Vanessa Wilson said “Degree apprenticeships are an absolute win-win for students and employers. Students are able to earn while they learn and employers gain a workforce with the exact skills they need. Alliance universities have been trail blazers in in this field and we welcome this report highlighting both the importance of degree apprenticeships and the work that still needs to be done to raise awareness and engagement around this key qualification route.”
Alliance Universities certainly have led the field in Degree Apprenticeships, with Teesside University being among the first to be rated outstanding by Ofsted. The University of Hertfordshire has been such an advocate and pioneer in this area that their Vice-Chancellor Professor Quintin McKellar was asked to Chair the Review’s sounding board.
Professor Quintin McKellar said: “Degree apprenticeships provide an opportunity for employers to work closely with universities to develop high-quality programmes that meet key skills needs, fill occupations that are experiencing shortages and deliver them in an innovative and flexible way. They provide opportunities for employers to recruit talented staff with potential, and to develop and upskill existing staff. Degree apprenticeships are also an ideal opportunity for employers and universities to consider how they can recruit a more diverse workforce and extend employment opportunities.
“If we are to meet the significant demand for high-level skills in the economy, then government, its agencies, employers and universities cannot sit still. This report sets out how these actors can collectively ensure the success of degree apprenticeships.”
