News / Apprenticeships
Uni-run apprenticeship scheme receives national recognition
A university-backed apprenticeship scheme has received a seal of approval from the department for education at a recent award ceremony, celebrating the excellence of apprenticeship schemes around the country.
Bristol University’s “amazing apprentices” were lauded after the university made the finals of the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024, organised by the department for education.
Bristol Uni had already triumphed in the regional finals, winning the “Aptem Social Justice Employer of the Year Award”, which secured its place in the national competition held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.
Although the contingent from Bristol University did not claim the podium finish, the university’s apprenticeship team made a significant impact by showcasing their eXcelBristol Apprentices programme to a wider audience.
National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024 organised by department of education was held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London
The event also provided the opportunity to meet with Bridget Phillipson, secretary of state for education, highlighting the importance of apprenticeships in fostering skills and diversity.
Since its launch in 2019, the eXcelBristol Apprentices programme has welcomed 55 apprentices, with roles spanning across a range of areas such as laboratories, workshops, IT, and financial services.
The scheme has proved highly successful, with around half of the apprentices securing permanent roles within the university. Several have even advanced their qualifications, pursuing degrees while continuing to work.
James Bigwood, chief people officer at Bristol University, has pledged that apprentices will make up 1 per cent of the university’s workforce by 2025.
Rebecca Scott, head of apprenticeships and employment outreach at Bristol University, expressed how leading the apprenticeship scheme has been one of her most fulfilling experiences.
She said: “From a business proposal to business as usual, I am so proud of what we have achieved and I am grateful for having the opportunity to play a part in so many people’s career journeys. Apprenticeships are a great tool to widen access to employment and further education.”
The eXcelBristol Apprentices programme has not only opened doors for students but also provided invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Meet Idman Abdullahi Mohamed and Charlotte Facer. The former, a laboratory technician apprentice, shared how the scheme has been a transformative experience, offering her a combination of theoretical and practical skills.
While Charlotte, an internal auditor apprentice, highlighted how the apprenticeship allowed her to gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical experience necessary for her role, culminating in her achievement of Certified Internal Auditor status.
Idman Abdullahi Mohamed (left) and Charlotte Facer have successfully completed the apprenticeship scheme
The university’s efforts in expanding its apprenticeship scheme are part of a wider strategy to attract and develop diverse talent, offering opportunities for people from varied backgrounds to begin careers in higher education.
Bristol University has said that this focus on inclusivity aligns with the university’s “goal of creating entry-level roles that foster growth within its community”.
“Our apprenticeship programme opens doors to new talent from a wide range of backgrounds, and we are proud of the impact the apprentices make at our university.,” said professor Evelyn Welch, vice-chancellor at Bristol University
Professor Evelyn Welch, vice-chancellor at Bristol University, praised the impact of the apprenticeship programme.
She said: “It is fantastic to see our amazing staff and apprentices recognized by the Department for Education. Our apprenticeship programme opens doors to new talent from a wide range of backgrounds, and we are proud of the impact the apprentices make at our university.”
All photos: Bristol University
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