Degree Apprenticeships can be designed and delivered under numerous models as long as they deliver the off-the job learning.

An apprentice must be in work for a minimum of 30 hours a week and 20% of their time should be spent carrying out off-the job learning.  This might typically be addressed through a day release course which would suit local employers.

Other models might include block release which is often preferred by large employers who have employees (apprentices) all over the country in which case accommodation becomes more of an operating need.

Distance learning models can be used but not exclusively.

Boot camps might be a beneficial feature for some employers to provide a boost of learning to get the apprenticeship under way.

Lower level study apprenticeships (e.g. level two and three often involve an element of flexibly delivered one:one work place support and competence assessment through NVQ awards or similar).  The university might look to its placement models for inspiration.

The Work Based Learning Framework (WBLF) has been set up to support innovative and employer responsive course design.  A preliminary meeting with a panel member can help you to effectively structure and improve your apprenticeship course.  Contact the Academic Quality & Standards team

Ultimately your course design should reflect the content of the relevant Apprenticeship Standards and respond to the needs of employers.  Early consultation with your client base is recommended.  For open awards where more than one employer will send an apprenticeship then consultation events might be the best way to harness the sector opinion.

For Trailblazers that are under development it is best to get in touch with the Trailblazer Lead. Some initial research may be required to identify the Trailblazer group chair. To get access to the latest thinking on that standard and attend meetings with those employers who are pushing the new Apprenticeship Standard forward  for their sector, take a look at the list of the occupations available. There is an on-line document showing the employers involved in each standard.

The design must take into account relevant WBL principles, which can be further explored under Curriculum and Assessment

Assessment

To highlight of the introductory range of assessment considerations

Compliance

Emphasises those areas where apprenticeship courses must be designed and delivered to support compliance with the apprenticeship funding rules.

Curriculum

Considering curriculum design for Higher and Degree Apprenticeships (HDAs)

Please review our screencasts SHU HDA Design Principles  and  SHU Apprenticeship Journey