The Edge Foundation and Sheffield Hallam University have just published an interesting report considering the relationship between widening participation and degree apprenticeships, which have now been established for nearly a decade. The study concludes that degree apprenticeships (DAs) are becoming integral to higher education, but primarily function as employment-focused opportunities where employers lead recruitment and often choose existing employees for further training. Employers’ control limits universities' ability to target underrepresented groups, making participation goals for DAs challenging. DAs are prevalent in fields such as digital technology, engineering, and business, where new recruits often join directly. However, DAs in sectors like healthcare typically serve current employees, making youth outreach less effective. While DAs offer career growth for those who missed out on HE initially, they don’t align with traditional widening participation goals aimed at disadvantaged young people, as DAs often attract those who might have otherwise pursued a standard undergraduate degree. The report suggests that future policy may benefit from distinguishing between social mobility and WP to better reflect DAs’ unique impact.
Kate Hawkins
1w
Really interesting report Chris, thanks for signposting to it!
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1wSounds really interesting Chris - I worked on AimHigher/ Widening Participation and saw some of the real benefits of DA and the excitement of so many young Apprentices to be on a path that suited them so much better. Sounds an interesting distinction to be made, and important for properly monitoring progress. Will have a look for the report. (Hope all's well btw!?)