Since 2015, the University has trained more than 6,300 apprentices. Its annual conference – ‘The Apprenticeship Outlook: what’s changing and what’s next’ – will take place in Stoke-on-Trent on 6 March 2026 and will bring together regional employers to examine workforce priorities and the impact of national apprenticeship reforms on local skills provision.
The event comes at a significant moment for technical education. The introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement, the establishment of Skills England and forthcoming reforms to apprenticeship assessment are reshaping how higher and degree apprenticeships operate across England.
Professor Raheel Nawaz, Pro Vice-Chancellor at the University, said: “Apprenticeships are now central to how we develop professional talent across Staffordshire.
“As national policy evolves, universities and employers must work even more closely together to ensure programmes remain rigorous, flexible and aligned to workforce need.
“This conference is about shaping the next phase of apprenticeship delivery in our region and ensuring local employers have access to the skilled workforce they require.”
Since introducing higher and degree apprenticeships in 2015, the University has grown provision from 150 starts in 2016 to a cumulative 6,308 apprentices by July 2026. It now works with 499 employers nationally, including many across Staffordshire and the wider Midlands.
Apprenticeships at Staffordshire support key regional sectors including healthcare, policing, engineering, defence, education and digital industries. Many apprentices go on to work within their local communities after qualifying, contributing directly to public services and business growth across the county.
The University currently delivers 20 apprenticeship standards from Level 5 to Level 7, enabling individuals to gain a full university qualification while working in paid employment.
The apprenticeship pathway has become increasingly important to Staffordshire’s economy, helping employers address skills shortages in areas such as diagnostic healthcare, protective services, advanced manufacturing and leadership development.
Lisa Davies, Head of Business Engagement at the University, said: “Employers are navigating change. They want clarity on how reforms affect them, how to maximise levy investment and how to build sustainable talent pipelines. This event provides a practical forum for collaboration and forward planning.”
The conference will explore apprenticeship reforms and the Government’s proposed Growth and Skills Levy, offering employers insight, networking opportunities and practical strategies to respond to evolving government priorities and workforce demands.
Regional employers interested in attending can find further details on the University’s website or book a place now.