FAQs and guides for employers

What is a Higher and Degree Apprenticeship?

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships offer employers and apprentices the opportunity to access higher level qualifications while still in full-time employment.

What are the benefits?

There are many benefits to Higher and Degree Apprenticeships. They are an effective way to develop talent, and to create a skilled and qualified workforce. Apprentices can improve existing workplace motivation and productivity (gov.uk).

Are apprenticeships relevant to the workplace?

Higher and Degree Apprenticeship standards are created by employers to develop specific skills required for the workplace. These are then mapped against De Montfort University (DMU) programmes which ensure that the learning outcomes and content are tailored to support the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for the job.

How are employers involved?

Employers are central to how new apprenticeships are being created. Standards are developed by groups of employers called ‘Trailblazers’. These precisely target knowledge, skills and behaviours required at a professional level. 

Is it a job, training or learning?

An apprenticeship is a real job, lasting from 12 months to four years. Training days are provided by DMU and employers work closely with us to ensure both learning and training reflects the job role and the individual learner needs.

What are the wages for apprentices?

Apprentices are paid at least the National Living Wage or the National Minimum Wage. Employers may want to consider offering a wage that would attract the best candidates for the apprenticeship, especially at a Higher and Degree level. See details of current pay rates and government guidelines on apprentice pay and conditions.

What support will my organisation receive?

DMU can help your organisation to identify a Higher and Degree Apprenticeship programme to meet the needs of your business. We will also help you to understand the contractual and operational aspects of the apprenticeships system (including funding rules).

Visit the Depart for Education website's Employer Guide. This is an external link which will take you to the gov.uk apprenticeships site, however you can contact the DMU apprenticeships team if you have any questions about how we can support your business.