Higher and Degree Apprenticeships: a perspective from UK professions

Purpose This article assesses the current position in respect of Higher and Degree Apprenticeships as entry- and progression routes in British professions. Design/methodology/approach An interpretive approach was used in which loosely-structured interviews were carried out with staff from professional bodies and corresponding providers, followed by a series of online focus groups. Findings Professions are widely involved in Higher and Degree Apprenticeships, and most are highly supportive of them as entry- and progression-routes. There is evidence that apprenticeships can be more effective at bringing people to qualified level than full-time higher education followed by professional training. Their ability to widen access to professional careers is variable in relation to school-leavers, but unequivocal for people already in the workforce. There are still areas where the design, delivery and national management of apprenticeships are in need of improvement. Research limitations/implications The study draws on a small sample of professions and omits most notably the financial sector. Interviews were also not secured with providers corresponding to all the professional bodies, although providers from a wider range of sectors were included in the focus groups. Practical implications Professions are likely to benefit from engaging with apprenticeships, provided that they are designed appropriately in relation to professional qualifying processes. At policy level, apprenticeships need to be given more attention as professional programmes and learners enabled to progress seamlessly to fully qualified level. Originality/value This is the first multi-sectoral study of professions’ perspectives on Higher and Degree Apprenticeships since 2017. It adds an often overlooked voice, that of professional bodies, to current discussions on apprenticeships.