Apprenticeships appear to be playing a leading role for politicians looking to woo the nation.

In recent weeks, the leaders of both major political parties have made statements in support of vocational education and apprenticeships. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has talked about tackling “rip-off” university courses, eager to channel more school leavers towards vocational education.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to break the glass ceiling that leads to university degrees being given more value than other routes into a career. 

While we believe university degrees play a key role in the talent pipeline, these comments are part of a chorus of acknowledgement that there is a need for a greater diversity of routes into roles.

Meeting the needs of the science sector
For businesses within the science sector in particular, the need is often even more acute, as widespread skills gaps persist. These gaps have the potential to cause broader long-term issues for the sector as the pipeline leading people to the sciences continues to ‘leak’.

A 2019 study into the subject found that despite a high quantity of STEM undergraduates, many vacancies in the sciences remain unfilled. This indicates that many STEM graduates end up going into other fields, and that a lack of suitable technician-level candidates may be having a negative impact.

For the UK to maintain its position as a global leader in science and innovation, it is imperative to address issues around talent proactively. Fast-paced advancements in technology and research demand a workforce equipped with cutting-edge skills and knowledge. 

Tiro’s recent report, The Evolving Hiring Landscape, revealed that many in the sciences already believe that apprentices can play a key role in easing these issues. More than a quarter of hiring decision makers say the science sector would benefit from more non-university routes into jobs. As a result, those in sciences are more likely to say they believe that apprentices can help their talent pipeline in the long-term.

Passing the baton
One key advantage is to help pass knowledge directly to the next generation of science sector workers. Apprentices can work alongside experienced professionals, gaining invaluable exposure to the latest industry practices. This real-world experience not only hones their technical skills but also nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.

Moreover, apprenticeships also have the power to help democratise opportunities within the UK science sector. Our data shows 24 per cent of science hiring decision makers think that poor science experiences in school play a role in the lack of early career talent entering the sector. Yet historically, pursuing a career in science has been associated with obtaining formal degrees from prestigious institutions, making it inaccessible for many talented individuals. 

Apprenticeships offer an inclusive pathway, enabling a broader range of individuals to develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. This diversity enriches the sector with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, paving the way for ground-breaking discoveries and solutions. 

Collaboration is key
However, some obstacles remain to unlocking the power of apprenticeships – and more needs to be done to convert business leaders to the cause. Tiro’s recent research found that even where advocates exist within companies, garnering the support of colleagues can be challenging. Many express a desire to increase apprentice hires, yet a fifth have encountered difficulty in persuading others to adopt this approach. A key contributing factor is persistent elitism, particularly noticeable in the science sector where 28% acknowledge this, compared to 20% in the broader UK business landscape.

Meanwhile, steps could be taken to make apprenticeships more attractive in a practical sense. Expanding the range of allowable applications for the Apprenticeship Levy has the potential to open doors for many companies to more fully adopt apprenticeship programs. Just over a fifth of businesses in our research express their willingness to increase apprentice recruitment if the Levy’s usage extends to a broader spectrum of possibilities. Furthermore, 20 per cent assert that a more inclusive array of bursaries or relocation packages could amplify the pool of potential apprentices, a percentage that climbs to 24 per cent within the science sector.

While the vocal support for apprenticeship from the nation’s leaders is heartening, in order to meet the needs of the science sector and fully harness the potential of apprenticeships, providers need more support – and for policymakers need to take a braver, bolder view. A collaborative effort among educational institutions, employers, and government is essential. The reward? A thriving UK science sector that continues to lead the world.