Partner Article

Professions to get apprenticeship routes

The Government has moved to introduce graduate-level apprenticeships in sectors such as law, accountancy and advanced engineering.

Skills Minister Matthew Hancock announced that changes to the Specification of Apprentices Standards for England (SASE) would take effect next year, meaning level six and seven apprenticeships will be available for the first time.

These levels are equivalent to bachelors and masters degree levels, and the Government hope the provision will make “vocational learning an attractive alternative to the traditional higher education route.”

Mr Hancock said: “In the past, apprenticeships were restricted to only some trades, and some parts of the economy. “Now we are introducing apprenticeships in all types of jobs, including a new route to the professions, to ensure everyone can reach their potential.

“These new apprenticeships will help more young people to receive on-the-job training at top companies like BPP Law School, ensuring a vocational route to success in accounting, insurance, and the law.”

Some such apprenticeships are already in development across accountancy, law and human resources roles.

BPP Law School is looking to develop a Legal Apprenticeship pathway which could be an alternative route to the legal profession and qualification as a solicitor, and is in talks with the sector skills council Skills for Justice on progressing the idea.

Director of BPP Professional Apprenticeships, James Hammill, said: “We are committed to improving social mobility and diversity in the workplace by opening up some of the most prestigious professions and employers to school leavers as an alternative to the traditional route.

“Apprenticeships are an excellent way for employers to recruit talent early and design a structured training programme that incorporates technical learning as well as invaluable work based skills.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .