To provide an institutional view of higher-level skills, Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) created a new Directorate of Business Engagement Skills and Employability (BESE). Among its many activities, the Directorate coordinates the development of degree apprenticeships across the four faculties.

SHU has developed a flexible and responsive approach to work-based learning, which it uses to design and approve programmes rapidly. This rests on an agreed framework, or a common core of work-based learning activity for all undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The framework then combines with specific subjects, approved by a standing panel which meets ten times each year.

BESE also helps to develop effective partnerships. It represents the university on the Local Enterprise Partnership’s Skills, Employment and Education Board. It also helps to place apprenticeships at different levels within the same company drawing on different providers.

DBESE also works with further education colleges in the region to explore new opportunities to develop products and programmes that focus on delivering the skills that employers need to support the economic growth of the region.