Higher and degree apprenticeship provision rated "Good" by Ofsted

Higher and degree apprenticeship provision at the University of Leeds has been awarded a rating of “Good” by Ofsted.

The education watchdog praised a “culture of care and respect” which makes apprentices feel “valued and safe”.

At the time of the inspection, in June 2022, Leeds had 544 apprentices studying across disciplines including healthcare, nursing and leadership.

The Ofsted report, published in August 2022, said: “Apprentices acquire significant new knowledge, skills and behaviours throughout their apprenticeship and learn the specialist skills required for their roles. They are well prepared for higher-level careers in healthcare, nursing, clinical practice, leadership and digital technologies. The small number of apprentices who have completed their end-point assessments have achieved with high grades.

“Apprentices enjoy their programmes and are proud to be part of the university community. They appreciate the professional learning environment, including the library, which is well resourced to support research and further study.”

Ofsted also praised the variety of enrichment opportunities on offer, for example the chance to attend guest lectures and seminars, and take part in sports including kickboxing and football. The report said apprentices who have specific learning needs are “well supported” including through additional academic support and assistive technologies.

Professor Jeff Grabill, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Education, said: "Working with businesses and helping upskill their workforces is a key part of our work in the region and beyond. We have a close relationships with many diverse employers,  and work together to design workplace-based education and training that helps meet business priorities. This Ofsted report recognises the hard work that goes into preparing and running our apprenticeships programmes, which equip apprentices with the skills needed for high-level roles in their workplaces.”

Find out more about apprenticeships at the University.