Sheffield launches degree-level apprenticeships
12 Nov 2016
Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam universities have launched a degree-level apprenticeship programme to help close the engineering skills gap.
The scheme will also provide an alternative route into higher education for young people, the universities said.
This programme, which followed a successful bid to the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), is the first cross-city university collaboration in engineering, the universities added.
It will be delivered using the strengths of both institutions in order to extend the engineering apprenticeship offer in the city in line with industry needs.
Starting in September 2017, a total of 90 apprentices will study for degrees in Integrated, Materials and Rail Engineering, as well as achieving professional accreditation alongside their employment, with the opportunity to progress to study at Masters Level. The curriculum will also be developed with employer input.
Keith Burnett, vice-chancellor of the University of Sheffield, said: “Filling the skills gap in engineering is a crucial issue for the UK’s economy. Universities have an important part to play in developing this workforce that will play a key element in driving economic growth.”
