It's National Apprenticeships Week 2023, we are using this week to highlight the opportunity that apprenticeships offer both apprentices, managers and the organisation as a whole.

The University currently has over 30 members of staff on apprenticeships across 15 departments, with a further 40 + staff having successfully completed an apprenticeship qualification.

Who is eligible for an apprenticeship?

We are able to consider all members of staff for an apprenticeship, providing you have the support of your line manager and meet the residency status required.

We have a variety of staff working towards their apprenticeship qualification at the University, from Grade 2 through to Grade 9 and across all four job families.

Current apprentices are working towards a range of qualifications, from Leadership & Management to HR Support, Data Analyst to Digital Marketer to name but a few.

How does an apprenticeship work for current employees?

Alongside paid employment, you can learn and gain valuable experience as an apprentice working towards a nationally recognised qualification. An apprenticeship combines on-the-job training and study, with 20% of your working hours (minimum 6 hours per week) being used to complete learning with a training provider.

What can I study?

Apprenticeship Standards have been developed across many areas from Customer Service to Pharmacology and from Level 2 (pre-GCSE equivalent) to Level 7 (Master’s degree equivalent). You can visit the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education to view a full list of Apprenticeship Standards.

What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships enable individuals to build the skills and knowledge required to develop a rewarding career whilst helping to develop the organisation. Managers can develop team members using an apprenticeship as a way to upskill existing staff; this can be considered a cost-effective alternative to recruiting new staff.

Throughout an apprenticeship programme, individuals will have access to comprehensive training, support and a course mentor to offer additional help and resources required to improve your skills and complete the study successfully. As well as building skills and knowledge, individuals will gain a nationally recognised and professional qualification which will enhance your career opportunities.

The University is hugely supportive of apprentice programmes and will encourage and support employees throughout their course.

How are apprenticeships funded?

As a university we pay into an apprenticeship levy on a monthly basis. Levy funds are available to cover the costs of an apprenticeship for existing staff. Individuals are not required to contribute or repay any costs associated with their apprenticeships.

How can I find more information?

If you are a manager interested in accessing the Apprenticeship Levy to develop your team, please contact Lauren or Kate in Staff Apprenticeships.

If you are an individual who would be interested in completing an apprenticeship, please contact your line manager to find out more.

Please also visit our page Apprenticeships for University staff for more information.