In conversation with... Celeste Jones

Associate Director, Apprenticeships & Professional Programmes, University of Hertfordshire

Degree apprenticeships give employers a golden opportunity to recruit apprentices who are trained specifically to fill skill gaps within their organisation, while employing a motivated, talented individual, keen to develop on the job.

We sat down with Celeste Jones, Associate Director of Apprenticeships & Professional Programmes at the University of Hertfordshire, to discuss apprenticeships and how they could help your workforce.

Q What is an apprenticeship? How does it differ from a traditional degree?

An apprenticeship combines paid work with formal education, allowing individuals to gain practical experience while earning a qualification. The training programmes are a combination of classroom-based and theoretical teaching but with a focus on hands-on training and work-based learning in a specific field. The training costs (university fees) are fully funded by the employer levy for employers who are eligible to pay into the scheme.

Q What do apprentices do exactly?

Apprentices typically split their time between working for an employer and attending classes or completing coursework. They gain practical skills on the job while studying the theoretical aspects relevant to their profession. For example, an engineering apprentice might work on real projects within their organisation, while studying advanced engineering principles.

Q How do apprenticeships work exactly - and how long do they take?

Higher and degree apprenticeships last between two and five years, depending on their level and complexity. During this time, apprentices spend a minimum of five hours a week of their work hours on off-the-job training such as attending classes (in blocks or day release), participating in workshops, or independent study.

Q What kind of people sign up for apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships attract a wide range of individuals, including school leavers, those seeking to upskill, or people changing careers. Many who prefer a practical learning experience or want to earn a salary while re-training and / or studying, tend to choose this path.

Q What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?

Key benefits include earning while learning, gaining industry-specific skills and potentially avoiding student debt. Apprentices also gain valuable work experience, making them highly employable after completion or ready for promotion within their own organisation.

Q What do employers think of them?

Employers value apprenticeships because they help address skills gaps, allowing businesses to develop talent tailored to their needs. Apprenticeships provide companies with motivated employees who are trained with the latest knowledge and skills, and by thinking “Apprentice First” when creating new vacancies, see a much greater level of interest and applications to the role.

Q How long has the University of Hertfordshire been offering degree apprenticeships?

The University of Hertfordshire has been offering apprenticeship degrees since 2017, partnering with a wide range of public and private sector employers to provide skills training in fields like engineering, healthcare, and leadership. Currently, Herts offers 19 apprenticeship programmes - from Business and Management, Cyber Security and Data Science, to Nursing, Social Work and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiography.

Q What employers do Herts work with?

The University of Hertfordshire partners with over 250 employers, including major organisations such as the NHS, TUI, Tesco, MBDA, Hertfordshire County Council, and multiple SME’s across the county.

Q How do apprenticeships benefit businesses?

Apprenticeships help businesses fill skills gaps, increase productivity, and ensure staff are trained to meet specific company needs. They also reduce recruitment costs by fostering loyalty among apprentices who often remain with the company long-term.

Q What happens after an apprenticeship is completed?

After completing an apprenticeship, individuals are typically well-positioned to secure full-time employment, often within the company they trained with. Some may also pursue further education or advanced apprenticeships.

Q Can you tell us about some particular apprentice success stories?

The University of Hertfordshire has shared several success stories from its partnerships, including those in the NHS and local government. For example, apprentices at Hertfordshire County Council have been able to develop key leadership skills, advancing their careers while contributing to public sector innovation.