University of Birmingham celebrates a decade of apprenticeships

The University of Birmingham is celebrating 10 years of its Apprenticeship Scheme, marking a decade of creating opportunities for people across the West Midlands while developing the skilled workforce needed for the future.

Since welcoming its first apprentices in 2016, the University has recruited more than 270 apprentices across a wide range of professional, technical and operational roles. The scheme has helped individuals gain nationally recognised qualifications, develop valuable workplace skills and build successful careers, with more than 50 apprentices progressing into higher-level roles within the University.

The milestone was marked by a special anniversary event, bringing together apprentices past and present to celebrate their achievements, share experiences and reflect on the lasting impact of the programme.

As a major employer supporting one in every 50 jobs in Birmingham, the University has a long-standing civic commitment to supporting local communities and creating opportunities for people to develop their skills and fulfil their potential.

The Apprenticeship Scheme forms an important part of that commitment, providing an alternative route into higher education and employment through a combination of practical experience and formal learning.

Originally launched to attract talented individuals who may not otherwise have considered a career at the University, the scheme has grown significantly over the past decade. What began with a small number of apprenticeship roles now spans disciplines including business administration, laboratory sciences, digital marketing, surveying and clinical trials, alongside degree-level apprenticeship opportunities.

The programme has also evolved to support existing staff through leadership, management and specialist professional apprenticeships, enabling colleagues to develop new skills and advance their careers.

Jane Astle, Apprenticeship Manager at the University of Birmingham, said:

"For the past decade, our Apprenticeship Scheme has shown the powerful role universities can play in creating opportunities, developing talent and supporting economic growth. Apprenticeships provide a high-quality route into skilled employment, allowing people to earn while they learn and gain experience in real-world settings.

"We are immensely proud of the hundreds of apprentices who have built successful careers through the programme and the ways they continue to contribute to both the University and the wider region."

The University's apprenticeship offer combines paid employment with nationally recognised qualifications delivered through external training providers. Apprentices also benefit from personalised careers guidance, networking opportunities, professional development activities and support to progress into future employment and further learning.

Today, more than 90% of apprentices successfully complete their programme, with 83% continuing their careers at the University. Completion rates consistently outperform the national average, demonstrating the strength of support available throughout the apprenticeship journey and the value apprentices bring to the institution.

Caleb Wright, HR Engagement and Policy Manager, who helped establish the apprenticeship scheme at the University of Birmingham, said:

"Over the last decade, we've seen apprenticeships transform lives and careers. From our first cohort in 2016 to the hundreds of apprentices who have since come through the programme, the impact has been extraordinary.

"The scheme has helped people gain confidence, qualifications and experience while bringing fresh talent and new perspectives into the University. It's something everyone involved should be incredibly proud of."

The impact extends beyond the University itself. Through apprenticeship levy transfers, the University also supports local small and medium-sized businesses to recruit apprentices and invest in workforce development, helping to strengthen skills across the regional economy.

One former apprentice said: "The apprenticeship has been invaluable for my confidence and self-belief, opening doors to opportunities that I did not previously have. It has also enabled me to develop a range of transferable interpersonal skills that have been crucial to my career progression to date."

Ten years on from its launch, the Apprenticeship Scheme continues to create opportunities for people from all backgrounds, helping individuals gain the skills, experience and confidence needed to succeed, and demonstrates the University's role in developing talent, broadening access to opportunity and supporting economic growth across the West Midlands and beyond.