This National Apprenticeship Week, the focus is on ‘skills for life’ and how businesses can support employees in acquiring long-term capabilities.
Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning at Arden University, discusses the role of degree apprenticeships in equipping workers with the skills needed to sustain industry growth.
Over 80% of employers and apprentices report satisfaction with apprenticeship programmes, with 78% of employers noting an increase in business productivity. Hurst highlights how degree apprenticeships provide structured, hands-on learning that benefits both individuals and organisations.
The Role of Apprenticeships in Developing Lifelong Skills
Degree apprenticeships blend formal education with on-the-job training, ensuring employees gain practical skills relevant to their industries. Hurst explains that these skills not only support immediate business needs but also remain applicable throughout an individual’s career, enhancing long-term employability.
Apprenticeships encourage continuous learning, with 93% of participants securing employment or further training upon completion. This ability to adapt to changing industry demands benefits both employees and businesses, helping organisations stay ahead in evolving markets. Degree apprenticeships also serve as a tool for upskilling and retaining existing staff, ensuring they have the competencies needed to lead the modern workforce.
Addressing Skill Gaps Through Upskilling
Industries facing skill shortages can use degree apprenticeships to develop a steady pipeline of skilled workers. Businesses can directly address gaps by training individuals in competencies that are currently lacking.
Higher-level apprenticeships not only prepare workers for leadership positions but also equip them with the technical and managerial skills necessary for business challenges. Hurst stresses the importance of selecting the right training provider, ensuring that practical assessments and tasks align with business needs.
“A good way to determine if a training provider can address your business’ pain points is to see if they include practical assessments or tasks. These exercises enable employees to apply and enhance their knowledge in ways directly relevant to their roles within your organisation,” he explains.
Apprenticeships as a Talent Retention Strategy
Beyond skill development, degree apprenticeships contribute to talent retention. With businesses facing rising expenses and recruitment costs, retaining skilled employees is becoming increasingly important.
Data from LinkedIn indicates that 90% of organisations are concerned about employee retention, with learning opportunities cited as the most effective strategy. A study by the Skills Funding Agency also found that 80% of employers reported improved retention rates after hiring apprentices.
“Research suggests that seven in ten of us say learning improves our sense of connection to our organisation, with eight in ten saying learning adds purpose to our work,” says Hurst. He notes that employees are more likely to remain with an employer when professional development is prioritised.
Employer Branding and Workforce Development
Investing in degree apprenticeships allows businesses to shape employees into skilled professionals who align with their operational needs. Hurst highlights how this approach fosters creativity and innovation in the workplace, strengthening employer branding.
“But it also opens doors, not just for young people, but also underrepresented groups and those from disadvantaged backgrounds that may not have previously had the opportunity to go to university,” he explains.
With corporate social responsibility a priority, apprenticeships support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. By embedding these principles into hiring and training, businesses can enhance workforce diversity while addressing societal challenges. Demonstrating a commitment to workforce development also builds stakeholder trust and strengthens brand reputation.
“Degree apprenticeships are a powerful way for industries to build a skilled and adaptable workforce,” Hurst concludes. “By combining hands-on training with practical education, apprenticeships equip workers with the lifelong skills needed to excel in their roles and adapt to the evolving demands of the industry. Not only can this help with nurturing talent and boosting career opportunities, but it also ensures that sectors thrive with a steady pipeline of capable, confident professionals. Investing in apprenticeships isn’t just an investment in workers – it’s an investment in the future of industries.”
