There is still work to do to unlock the full potential of apprenticeships for our communities

To mark National Apprenticeship Week, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor and CEO CU Apprenticeships, Aidan Friend, discusses what three things must happen if we’re to harness the full potential of apprenticeships.

At Coventry University, we understand the vital role apprenticeships play in bridging the gap between education and employment. As one of the largest providers of degree apprenticeships in the UK, we work with over 1,000 businesses and support more than 4,000 learners, delivering industry-relevant training that supports career growth across multiple sectors.

However, challenges remain. The potential defunding of Level 7 apprenticeships threatens the perceptions of quality and pathways and therefore their long-term sustainability. It also risks undermining the impact they have on skills development, academic equivalence and social mobility. If we are to harness the full potential of apprenticeships, we must take decisive action in three key areas:

Increase funding and flexibility

Bridging the UK’s skills gap is critical for maintaining our competitive edge, driving innovation, and securing long-term economic growth. Yet, many industries—including digital, engineering, and healthcare—continue to struggle with skills shortages, increasing workloads, and workforce attrition.

One solution is greater investment and flexibility in apprenticeship funding. The system combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction with apprenticeships offering real-world experience that directly benefits both learners and employers. However, quality training comes at a cost. The government must enhance financial support, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring they can access apprenticeships without financial barriers.

At Coventry University, we are committed to supporting employers nationwide to deliver high-quality apprenticeships. From collaborating with regional partners to widening access and participation, our programmes support lifelong learning and career development across multiple industries. Our work has helped foster better futures for individuals while addressing critical skills shortages in the economy.

To further this impact, we are taking proactive steps to support SMEs by offering 100 fully funded apprenticeship places through the Levy Gift initiative. Non-levy paying employers are typically required to contribute 5% towards apprenticeship training costs, but by removing this barrier, we are helping more SMEs develop the skills they need to grow and thrive.

Addressing the Skills Gap head on

Significant progress has already been made in recognising the importance of apprenticeships. The establishment of Skills England, along with initiatives such as the Skills for Jobs White Paper and the Skills for Sustainable Growth strategy, demonstrates a national commitment to workforce development.

However, more needs to be done to ensure apprenticeship programmes align with the skills needed today—and in the future. By working closely with businesses and industry leaders, we can design apprenticeship pathways that respond to evolving economic demands, ensuring that our workforce is equipped to tackle emerging challenges. A forward-thinking approach will not only benefit employers and apprentices but will also contribute to a more dynamic, resilient, and future-ready economy.

Simplifying the process

For apprenticeships to reach their full potential, we must break down the barriers that prevent businesses from engaging with them. The current system remains overly complex, deterring some employers from investing in apprenticeships and limiting access for potential learners.

Reducing bureaucracy and streamlining processes will make it easier for businesses—especially SMEs—to participate in apprenticeships and provide high-quality training. Beyond benefiting employers, a simpler and more transparent system will also encourage greater diversity in apprenticeship applicants, broadening access to opportunities and ensuring a wider talent pool for businesses.

Conclusion

National Apprenticeship Week is an important moment to highlight the impact apprenticeships have on skills development and economic growth. However, if we are serious about maximising their potential, these conversations must continue beyond just one week each year.

By increasing funding, simplifying processes, and addressing the skills gap head-on, we can create a more robust and effective apprenticeship system—one that delivers long-term benefits for businesses, learners, and the communities we serve.

The opportunity is there. Now is the time to seize it.