Shadow Minister Toby Perkins meets next generation of Sheffield Hallam University degree apprentices

Toby Perkins heard about how Sheffield Hallam was one of the first providers degree apprenticeships and how the University now delivers one of the widest selection of courses in the UK, with more than 1,500 apprentices across 400 employers.

The Chesterfield and Staveley MP also heard how the University values degree apprenticeships as an important vehicle for increasing social mobility, providing people of all ages – including many young people who might not otherwise have gone to university – with the access and opportunity to thrive and develop their confidence whilst contributing to their community, the economy and society.

He took part in an interactive Q and A session with current apprentices and employers who spoke about how degree apprenticeships have helped them thrive, enhancing career prospects and productivity.

As part of the visit, Toby also spoke to senior leaders in the University’s Directorate of Business Engagement, Skills and Employability about the ways Sheffield Hallam’s portfolio of degree apprenticeships benefits apprentices, businesses and the economy.

Tanitia Moore, digital and technology solutions degree apprentice at Peak Indicators said: “I think an underrated part of this method of training is the networking side of things – I have had the opportunity to meet lots of very skilled people within this area of work, which has allowed me to expand my network of contacts for the future.

“Additionally, I have really enjoyed working alongside my knowledgeable colleagues to understand the different areas of the business. I am glad MPs are looking at this route of learning in more detail.”

Toby Perkins MP, Shadow Minister for Apprenticeships, Skills and Lifelong Learning said: “It has been wonderful to visit Sheffield Hallam virtually and to find out more about their degree level apprenticeship programme from apprentices, employers and the team at Sheffield Hallam.

“My Mother lectured at Hallam so I always enjoy my visits there and I know that many Chesterfield students end up studying there, so it is a crucial partner for Chesterfield and our businesses.

“Apprenticeships are an ideal opportunity for young people and adults to progress in their career, earning whilst they learn, and Labour are committed to offering more opportunities of an apprenticeship to young people.”

Conor Moss, group director and dean of work based learning At Sheffield Hallam said: “We were delighted to meet Toby Perkins today and introduce him to some of our amazing apprentices and show him why Sheffield Hallam is one of the country’s leading providers of higher and degree apprenticeships.

“We want to play a leading role in changing perceptions of HDAs for the better by sharing our expertise, so that we can help to improve understanding of how degree apprenticeships work, allowing more employers and workers to benefit from the opportunities they provide.

“We know degree apprenticeships play a key role in building a more productive, skilled workforce and a levelled-up economy with opportunities for all. We work with regional and national employers to support both staff upskilling and attraction of new and diverse talent.”