University of Reading

The University of Reading is a UK higher education institution that uses apprenticeships as a structured route for vocational and professional development, primarily for its own staff. Through its People Development apprenticeships offer, the University supports employees in gaining nationally recognised qualifications while remaining in paid employment. Apprenticeships are aligned to specific job roles and apprenticeship standards, with programmes typically lasting from one to six years and requiring a minimum of 20% off‑the‑job learning delivered via training sessions, personal study, tutorials, assignments and project work. Training is delivered by registered external providers, such as colleges and independent training organisations, and funded centrally through the University’s apprenticeship levy, with departments covering associated costs like travel or professional memberships. Apprenticeships are available from Level 2 to Level 7, covering intermediate, advanced, higher and degree levels, and are open to staff of all ages and grades where their roles can support the required skills development. Recent apprenticeship areas for University staff include business administration, project management, coaching, legal and finance, digital roles such as data analyst and network engineer, and a range of construction and building services trades. This provision is positioned as a way for managers to develop their teams, support succession planning, and enhance engagement, productivity and retention across the organisation. (reading.ac.uk)