Teesside University supporting thousands of apprentices to reach their full potential

National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity to celebrate and champion the achievements of apprentices around the country who make a positive impact to communities, businesses, and the wider economy.

Teesside University’s apprenticeship portfolio has expanded to respond to the demands of industry and a new strategy is being launched with a clear focus on putting the needs of apprentices and employers first.

More than 2,000 Professional Apprentices are currently enrolled on programmes at Teesside University, and over 200 employers are collaborating with the University to support their workforce development needs and secure the talent pipelines of the future.

National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 6 to 12 February, with the theme ‘skills for life’ and is designed to raise the profile and celebrate the success of the apprenticeship community.

During National Apprenticeship Week, Teesside University’s National Horizons Centre is hosting the Advanced Therapies Apprenticeship Community Northern Roadshow on 7 February.

In addition, the University will be launching its Apprenticeship Employer Forum, a new initiative aimed at employers which will enable them to inform and shape the professional apprenticeship offer and provide opportunities to share good practice and experience from an employer’s perspective.

It comes as Teesside University’s Department of Apprenticeships finalises its new strategy which will build on the University’s growing reputation as an outstanding apprenticeship provider.

Teesside University was among the first higher education institutions in the country to have its provision subject to a full inspection by Ofsted, with its Professional Apprenticeship provision rated as ‘outstanding’ across all categories.

Its new strategy sets out a commitment to be recognised as a flagship apprenticeship provider, delivering clear career progression options and supporting organisations and businesses to maximise the use of the apprenticeship levy, a critical lever for building capacity in key high level skills priority areas and levelling-up.

The University’s apprenticeship offer has been expanding, focussing on placing the needs of apprentices and employers at the heart of its development. More than 20 innovative Professional Apprenticeships are now available, ranging from Business Management and Cyber Security, to Engineering, Health and Dietetics.

The University’s School of Arts & Creative Industries also recently launched the UK’s first Curator Degree Apprenticeship. Designed in partnership with Industry leaders, this cutting-edge programme will enable the sector to attract and develop a diverse talent pipeline.

Jo Burgess, Director of Apprenticeships at Teesside University, said: “These are incredibly exciting times, and we are delighted Teesside University has set ambitious targets to grow and expand apprentice provision – at a time when the spotlight is firmly on apprenticeships and the positive impact they make.

“Our mission is to work with industry partners and build comprehensive innovative apprenticeships, collaborating with business to ensure people are equipped with the knowledge and experiences they need to become future industry leaders and highly skilled experts in their field.

“We are committed to providing every Teesside University Professional Apprentice with the opportunity and support to graduate with the skills and knowledge required to achieve success, make a significant contribution to their workplace and enjoy fulfilling future careers.”

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