The untapped potential of Apprentices - a drip or a cascade?

Progression to HE for Apprentices in context

• Government plans to increase the numbers of Apprentices• Current and future skills needs• The Browne review and HE fees• Quality Credit Framework

Current Apprentice progression to Higher Education is 4% (UCAS 2009).

Why?

LSC AdvAnce report (2007-9)

• 38% Advanced Apprentices wanted to take up higher level training within 6 months• 45% Advance Apprentices wanted to take

up higher training within 3 years

Mismatch between ambition and progression?

Health and Social Care Apprentices

• Cornwall College and NHS have started an apprenticeship in Health and Social Care

• 2 completed last year • Both only found out by own research• Both had been guided onto other level 3 courses

which did not suit them • Now passionate, engaged and want to go onto HE• BUT no clear joined up progression route

Robert Jabangwe

Daniel Sharpe

Tony Tremain

What do Apprentices need?

•Up to date information

• Support

• Supply

HE supply

• Transition support – STEP INTO HE, • OU modules• Convergence funded Degree level short

courses• Foundation degrees - 2 days a week full

time• Honours degrees but with specific work

experience or additional qualifications

Useful websites

www.apprenticeships.org.uk

http://www.swtpn.com/gallery

www.open.ac.uk