University of Sussex wins funding to expand apprenticeship offering

The University of Sussex is among 33 universities awarded extra funding by the Office for Students (OfS) to further expand its apprentice offering.

It’s set to receive £301,610 during the 2024-25 academic year to grow the level 6 apprenticeship, giving candidates the opportunity to pick up a full bachelor’s degree while continuing to work. 

The university welcomed its first ever cohort of apprentices at the end of September, from companies including Tesla Engineering and the NHS.

Six apprentices are now studying at the university across two level 7 apprenticeships – advanced manufacturing engineering, and data science and artificial intelligence.

The programme takes two years to complete and has been developed in collaboration with Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology.

Two of this year’s apprentices were undergraduates at Sussex and will now be returning to the university for level 7 apprenticeships while working with Tesla Engineering.

Piers Morrill, who studies advanced mechanical engineering, said: “Since school, I’ve always had the goal to make a difference in the world, and through engineering I believe that’s possible. 

“For me, the apprenticeship route is the best way to get hands-on experience in the engineering space while also progressing my academic career.

“I think being able to use the theories and techniques I’ve been learning through my degree in real-world applications is very compelling.

“Getting work experience alongside a master’s is a great stepping stone for my career.”

The apprenticeship programme combines the university’s research with industry collaboration.

All employers are able to fund apprenticeships for their staff through the government’s apprenticeship levy. 

Geraldine Turton, head of apprenticeships at the University of Sussex, added: “Becoming a degree apprenticeship provider is a key aspect in the University strategy, Sussex 2035, as we recognise the importance of diversity in our programmes, the positive impact of community engagement and working with local businesses to create a skills landscape that’s fit for purpose. 

“These two degree apprenticeships are just the start – we’re continuing to develop new pathways to higher level qualifications and careers while supporting employers to develop the talent and skills they need, now and for the future. 

“Next year, we’ll be launching two further apprenticeships, but we always welcome employers to talk to us about what they need so we can develop more courses in areas they’re needed most, from electrical engineering to creative digital design.”

 Next year, the university will launch two new apprenticeships – business analytics and digital technology (level 6) and a postgraduate teacher route.