Dragon’s Den star & Solent University chancellor Theo Paphitis weighs in on degree apprenticeships

National Apprenticeship Week is officially underway, and Solent University in Southampton is singing the virtues of higher and degree apprenticeships.

The university offers 15 such courses across fields like data analysis, business management, nursing and construction, developing local talent to support local businesses.

It currently has 583 apprentices enrolled – from college leavers to mature students – with another 183 having graduated in the past year.

And they have a strong ambassador in retail magnate and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, renowned for his time on BBC’s Dragon’s Den and now serving as chancellor of Solent University.

“Degree apprenticeships are proving to be a growing area within the apprenticeship arena and clearly an area that employers should engage with where possible”, said Theo.

“Flexible study models allow a member of staff to develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours, while still having input into the daily working environment and importantly being able to earn while they learn.

“Organisations who engage with apprenticeships and institutions who are offering these courses have a real opportunity to ensure their staff are upskilled effectively, have an input into the way courses are developed, and can ensure that their skills needs and gaps are addressed.”

Ellie Peplinski, a registered mental health nursing apprentice, recently took home the Solent Engage Award for Apprentice of the Year.

She’s keen to encourage students of any age considering an apprenticeship to go for it.

“During my apprenticeship I’ve had lots of opportunities to work within various teams, learning and becoming part of different services and getting first-hand experience.

“I’ve really enjoyed meeting new people that I might work with in the future – it’s helped to increase my confidence in my own abilities.

“The academic side of my apprenticeship has taught me a lot of useful theory that I’ve been able to bring into and use within the workplace.

“My work has also been extremely accommodating and supportive with my studies, which has helped me to balance my workload and made it feel manageable.”

• Solent University is inviting those interested in becoming apprentice employers to get in touch at apprenticeships@solent.ac.uk

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