A study has revealed that there was a 95% uplift in construction and architecture degree apprenticeships in the last two years, despite a £214m increase in training costs
The research by the University Vocational Awards Council comes just months after levy funding was withdrawn for most Level 7 apprentices aged over 21, leaving construction and architecture employers with a huge financial and skills shortage.
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee, chief executive of UVAC, stated: “Although these findings provide no comfort to construction or architecture apprentices aged 22 and older or employers who were greatly impacted by the Level 7 government funding cuts earlier this year, it’s clear from our research that the UK’s top universities continue to back degree apprenticeships in large numbers.”
Gaining skills from construction and architecture apprenticeships will have huge economic impacts
In a further boost to firms, 69% of the UK’s Top 100 universities will continue to offer Level 7 apprenticeships in September despite the funding shortfall.
In the building and architecture sectors, 63% of the degree apprenticeships available at leading universities this autumn will be available at Level 6, whilst 37% can be completed at Level 7.
“What’s particularly encouraging is that universities aren’t simply maintaining provision; they’re evolving it,” Dr Crawford-Lee said.
“Degree apprenticeship growth in sectors such as construction and architecture demonstrates their commitment to tackling the UK’s biggest workforce challenges and to identifying where higher-level skills can have the greatest economic impact.”
Young people are keener than ever to pursue a construction career
Summing up the research, Dr Crawford-Lee concluded: “Demand for construction and architecture degree apprenticeships amongst young people has never been higher.
“Our focus is now on helping universities ensure their provision across more regions and sectors, and for apprentices from underserved communities, so that social mobility is not compromised.
“Degree apprenticeships remain the cornerstone of a successful economy, and our latest findings are certainly a significant step in the right direction.”
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