The call for robust apprenticeship support by UK universities is growing louder amid the new Labour government’s tenure.
- A significant 88% of universities emphasize the role of apprenticeships to bolster economic growth and narrow the skills gap.
- 84% of universities urge the continuation and expansion of apprenticeship initiatives fostered by the previous government.
- Concerns arise over Labour’s new funding model, with over three-quarters wary about potential impacts on apprenticeship quality.
- Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee articulates the crucial importance of safeguarding apprenticeship funding to enhance social inclusion.
In recent times, the dialogue around higher and degree apprenticeships has intensified, particularly as the newly elected Labour government sets its sights on economic expansion and skill gap reduction. According to a survey by the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC), a notable 88% of universities underscore the significance of these apprenticeships in achieving these aims.
The survey reveals that 84% of university members are advocating for Labour to preserve and advance the progress made under the preceding administration. There is a shared sentiment among these institutions regarding the importance of sustaining growth in this educational domain.
Financial aspects also play a critical role in this discourse. Approximately 64% of respondents believe that the government should shoulder the financial burdens universities face in delivering apprentice programs in collaboration with businesses. They stress the importance of diversifying these initiatives to encompass varied industry needs.
A pivotal area of concern is the impending shift in funding structures. Labour intends to replace the Conservative’s Apprenticeship Levy with the Growth and Skills Levy, necessitating employers with payrolls exceeding £3 million to contribute 0.5%. Even with apprehensions about this being another layer of taxation, 60% of universities maintain that the previous levy system offered superior support across all apprenticeship levels and demographics.
The sentiment is mixed regarding Labour’s proposed funding model. Over three-quarters of those surveyed express unease that the new system might permit employers to allocate up to half of their payments to non-apprenticeship training, potentially diminishing high-caliber talent influx into the workforce.
However, proponents of the Growth and Skills Levy argue for its potential to refine business operations. Advocates suggest it could deliver a more equitable apprenticeship framework, benefiting both sprawling and smaller enterprises across the nation. About 32% foresee an increment in funding for higher-level apprenticeships compared to the prior administration, while 36% anticipate enhanced social mobility as a result of its implementation.
A recurring issue under the previous Conservative government was the allocation of merely 20% of the annual apprenticeship budget to degree apprenticeships, with 77% of universities indicating this as insufficient to meet cross-sectoral demands.
Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, UVAC’s chief executive, notes the inherent uncertainties surrounding Labour’s skills agenda and their commitment to past manifesto promises. “Our members clearly feel it’s vital that Labour continues to safeguard the future of apprenticeships and makes them available to people of all ages and across all qualification and skill levels,” she stated, emphasizing the necessity of consistent funding for fostering economic inclusion and bridging skill gaps.
The dialogue spearheaded by universities is pivotal in shaping a sustainable future for apprenticeships that aligns with economic and social objectives.
