University of Suffolk Reports Success in Apprenticeship Achievement Rates

The University of Suffolk has been ranked the fifth highest university provider nationally for its overall qualification apprenticeship achievement rate among small-medium sized providers.

Qualification Achievement Rates (QAR) data for 2022/23 compiled by apprenticeship consultancy Lockhart Hawkins this week has ranked the University of Suffolk 30th out of 750 providers considered to be small-medium in size, meaning apprentice cohorts of between 40 and 499.

Within that small-medium size apprenticeship provider group it is the fifth highest university, with an overall achievement rate of 81.9 per cent. The national average achievement rate for all apprenticeship levels is currently 54 per cent. 

Including micro providers, where there are fewer than 40 apprentices, and large providers which have 500+ apprentices, the University of Suffolk sits in the top 100 with a ranking of 85 out of 1,261 providers by overall qualification achievement rate.

Among universities alone, it is the eighth highest performing for overall qualification achievement rate.

It marks the latest success for the University’s apprenticeship provision, which has a ‘Good’ rating from education watchdog Ofsted.

Yvonne Malpass, Director of Apprenticeships at the University of Suffolk, said: “These figures demonstrate the fantastic experience our apprentices enjoy at the University of Suffolk.

“Our strong retention and achievement rates show that learners are inspired and are well-prepared for their chosen careers, and the relationships we have built with employers gives our apprentices a great foundation to succeed.”

Among the University of Suffolk’s offering are degree apprenticeships in Social Work, Mental Health Nursing, Digital and Technology Solutions Professional, Adult Nursing and Nursing Associates programmes. 

The University is also continuing to develop new apprenticeship opportunities for learners, including as part of a regional partnership with further education colleges and integrated care boards known as the Centre of Excellence for Health Apprenticeships (CEHA), which will help address the skills gap in NHS and social care careers.

New apprenticeships launching this September include Level 7 Senior Leader and Level 7 Advanced Clinical Practitioner standards.

Professor Gurpreet Jagpal, Pro Vice-Chancellor Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of Suffolk, said: “Ensuring we have a strong portfolio of apprenticeships is an important part of our mission to ensure that learners have the opportunities that are right for them, and we are continually developing our relationships with employers and industry to play our part in delivering the workforce needs of the future.

“Learners can be confident we deliver an exceptional experience that will mean they complete their studies as confident, career-ready individuals.”

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at the University of Suffolk, visit the website here.