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Sheffield Hallam University aims to dispel common misconceptions around apprenticeships

Sheffield Hallam University is working with businesses to dispel a number of common misconceptions about higher and degree level apprenticeships including what sectors they are available in, what qualifications an apprentice can achieve, and who is eligible.

The typical image of an apprentice is a young person working in manufacturing or construction but in reality the offer and appeal is much broader, inclusive and adaptable.

The University recently held a higher and degree apprenticeship summit and has published a series of FAQs to change perceptions and encourage employers to work in partnership with Hallam to develop new programmes.

Higher and degree apprenticeships are an innovative way for businesses to work with higher education providers to offer young people and existing employees the opportunity of academic learning alongside real-world experience.

Sheffield Hallam University is already working directly with businesses, both national and regional, to develop bespoke higher or degree apprenticeships in new and innovative areas such as health and social care and digital and IT.

The University is collaborating with the likes of Nestlé and JCB on programmes such as the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship and Higher Apprenticeship in Advanced Engineering.

Degree apprentices can achieve a full bachelor’s or master’s degree and often recognition from professional bodies such as the Chartered Management Institute.

Apprentices don’t have to be school-leavers or new employees either. A number of higher apprentices currently on courses delivered in partnership with Sheffield Hallam are mature students who are already in the workplace. This is enabling businesses to develop current staff as well as attracting new talent.

Tom Banham, Head of Academy Talent Acquisition at Nestlé, said: “Designing the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam has allowed us to develop a bespoke programme to address specific higher level skills gaps. We have found that the combination of practical, commercial experience at Nestlé and academic excellence at Sheffield Hallam is giving young people the skills that they need to become successful. It’s a great way for us to grow and develop our future business leaders.“

“Attracting and developing talent in these areas is key for increasing productivity and performance going forward, which our partnership with Sheffield Hallam is helping us successfully deliver.“

It’s not only employers who are seeing the benefits of apprenticeships. The apprentices themselves are highly motivated and engaged with the business. Haleema Baker-Mir is currently doing a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Nestlé delivered in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University.

Haleema said: “I learn by doing and I feel that an apprenticeship where I learn a module at university and then can come back and directly apply it to my day to day job is the best way for me.“

“The best part of my job is that there is a new challenge every day that will widen my skillset and benefit my personal development. My aim is to find where my skills lie and where I feel I will add value to Nestlé; this way I will be doing a job that I love and a job that will be benefiting the business.“

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sheffield Hallam University .