Business event set to highlight the benefits of degree apprenticeships

Industry leaders, university experts and apprentices will share their experiences of the value of higher and degree apprenticeships as part of a free business-focused event at Sheffield Hallam University.

The Higher and Degree Apprenticeships breakfast event will feature a panel discussion with regional business leaders and organisations who deliver apprenticeships in partnership with Sheffield Hallam.

There will also be presentations from current Sheffield Hallam degree apprentices discussing their experiences.

The panel will include Louisa Harrison-Walker, Chief Executive of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce; Craig Wilkinson, Head of IT Service Development at FDM and Liam Burditt, Head of Learning and Development at GXO Logistics as well as Sheffield Hallam University leaders who have worked with scores of businesses to establish bespoke degree apprenticeship programmes.

Businesses from across the region are invited to attend the event to find out how degree apprenticeship programmes could benefit their business and staff development.

Degree apprenticeships are an alternative earn and learn route to a degree qualification. They combine working with studying part-time at a university. Apprentices are employed throughout the programme and spend part of their time at university and the rest with their employer.

Sheffield Hallam was one of the UK’s earliest adopters of degree apprenticeships in 2015, followed by the opening of the National Centre of Excellence for Degree Apprenticeships (NCEDA) at the University in 2018.

It was the first university in the UK to offer degree apprenticeships in physiotherapy when they launched in 2019 and now offers one of the widest portfolios of degree apprenticeships in the country.

Dan Lally, director of business engagement, skills and employability at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “This event is set to support businesses at all stages of their apprenticeship journey.

“There will be the opportunity to learn about the basics and understand the value an apprentice can bring to your business; as well as top tips from industry experts and our valued partners to help you think about how to take your scheme to the next level.”

The event is being held as part of National Apprenticeship Week, an annual government campaign to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

It will take place on Friday, February 10, from 9am to midday in Sheffield Hallam’s Owen Building, Howard Street. Register to attend the event.