Leeds Trinity University hits apprenticeship milestone

Launched one year ago, the centre is home to the University's higher and degree apprenticeship programmes and work-based learning provision.

Today ( Friday Feb 12) is the last day of National Apprenticeship Week.

Claire Newhouse, director of the Centre for Apprenticeships, Work-based Learning and Skills, said: "Since launching the centre in February 2020, the University has signed up 500 learners with over 100 employers.

"Our dedicated team of specialists provide teaching, support and advice for both apprentices and employers alike through our professionally relevant programmes created in response to employer demand, whilst also addressing the skills gaps that will help to rebuild the economy.

“As the centre continues to evolve, we look forward to expanding our provision and equipping businesses with a skilled workforce – vital to performance and economic growth.”

Leeds Trinity University introduced degree apprenticeships in October 2017 with a cohort of 15 apprentices on the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship programme.

Since then, the University has welcomed apprentices across nine additional programmes, offering apprenticeships in: Business to Business (B2B) Sales, Chartered Management, Digital Marketing, Software Engineering, Senior Leadership, Supply Chain Leadership, Children, Young People and Families and Police Constable.

A partnership with West Yorkshire Police has seen 300 new police officers studying for a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and the Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing with the University since last July.

Further programmes are planned to be launched over the coming year.

Many of the apprenticeships at Leeds Trinity are developed using the University's Work-based Learning Framework, which is a flexible way to give value to the knowledge and skills which are developed in the workplace.

Dan Lancaster-Holmes, Relationship Manager at the Centre, added: “Benefits for apprentices going through apprenticeships and work-based learning at Leeds Trinity University include being paid during an apprenticeship and having no tuition fees to pay. All costs are covered by the apprentice’s employer and the government, so those taking part get a debt-free university experience.

“Alongside these benefits, apprentices study part-time here at Leeds Trinity, building on their experience in the workplace.”

Leeds Trinity works with a large number of businesses through the programme, to address higher-level skills gaps efficiently and effectively by tailoring the learning to their workplace to enhance business performance and economic growth.

Additional benefits for employers include helping to attract and retain higher calibre staff, providing opportunities for existing staff to progress, and developing a more motivated and committed workforce.