Weekly Newsletter 03.10.2024

EDUCATION NEWS

BU Launches New Degree Apprenticeships to Enhance Regional Skills

Bournemouth University (BU) has secured £465,000 from the Office for Students (OfS) to launch five new degree apprenticeship courses in Digital Marketing, Accounting Finance Management, Biomedical Science, Social Work, and Midwifery. These courses will commence in September 2025, with applications opening early next year. Tuition fees will be covered by the apprenticeships levy.

This initiative aims to address regional skills gaps and enhance workforce capabilities. BU will also use the funding to support underrepresented groups through workshops and resources, including afterschool sessions and webinars for parents. Professor Philip Sewell emphasised BU's ambition to be the region's preferred degree apprenticeship provider, highlighting the university's commitment to meeting local and national needs.

EDUCATION NEWS

St Mary’s Secures £300k Grant for Degree Apprenticeships

St Mary’s University, Twickenham (SMU) has been awarded a grant of nearly £300,000 by the Office for Students (OfS) to develop new degree apprenticeship programmes. This initiative aims to widen access to higher education and provide local community members with essential skills for career advancement.

The degree apprenticeships will cover three standards: teaching, physiotherapy, and youth work, allowing participants to earn a degree while working full-time. Prof Sara Spear, Interim Provost, emphasised the importance of these programmes in offering non-traditional routes to higher education. Eleanor Stewart, Head of Apprenticeships, highlighted that the funding will remove financial barriers, enabling more individuals to upskill.

EDUCATION EXPANSION

OfS Allocates £14m to Expand Level 6 Degree Apprenticeships

The Office for Students (OfS) has allocated £14 million to expand level 6 degree apprenticeships across 33 universities and colleges in England. This funding aims to increase student numbers and promote equality of opportunity. Notably, a consortium of seven universities received £3.38 million to enhance healthcare education in collaboration with NHS Trusts.

Bournemouth University and Nottingham College also secured funding to develop new degree apprenticeship programmes. Bournemouth will introduce five new programmes, while Nottingham will focus on engineering pathways and outreach to disadvantaged communities. This initiative aligns with the government's mission to break down barriers to education and career opportunities, ensuring good value for money and economic growth.

EDUCATION TRENDS

T Level Student Satisfaction Declines, Apprenticeship Compliance Rises

The Department for Education's 2023 survey reveals that only 57% of T Level students are satisfied, a drop from previous years. Satisfaction varies by course, with education and early years students reporting higher satisfaction than health and science learners. Key issues include programme management and assessment methods.

Apprenticeship satisfaction has increased to 87%, with most completers experiencing positive career impacts. However, non-completion remains a concern, with 65% leaving within the first year due to poor organisation and insufficient training. Compliance with off-the-job training requirements has improved, though some sectors still lag behind.

SKILLS & APPRENTICESHIPS

Understanding End-Point Assessment for Apprenticeship Trainers

The Level 3 Understanding End Point Assessment (EPA) course by the Strategic Development Network (SDN) equips on-programme apprenticeship trainers with essential knowledge and practical tools. Delivered online, it includes self-study and two half-day webinars, making it flexible for professionals. The course covers all assessment methods, ensuring trainers are prepared for evolving standards.

Tutors Emily Hughes and Chris draw on extensive experience with over 60 End Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs) to provide real-life examples, enhancing the learning experience. Delegates benefit from a broad perspective, understanding challenges across various sectors, and are supported to ensure successful outcomes. The course is highly recommended for those pursuing a career as end-point assessors.

EDUCATION RESEARCH

More Data Needed to Reduce Apprenticeship Dropout Rates

The education charity Think has called for the Department for Education to publish more detailed data on apprenticeship dropouts to address high non-completion rates. Their report, commissioned by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, highlights that functional skills are a significant barrier, with many apprentices dropping out before completion.

The report suggests that more data on when apprentices leave and which standards they are studying would help improve completion rates. It also recommends integrating end-point assessments (EPAs) with mandatory qualifications to avoid duplication and enhance employer and learner interest. The Department for Education has introduced a new exit feedback tool but has yet to publish its results routinely.