Plymouth Marjon University secures funding to tackle skills shortage and advance social mobility

Released: 03.10.24

Plymouth Marjon University is proud to announce a bold expansion of its degree apprenticeship programmes, supported by a significant funding grant from the Office for Students (OfS). This initiative is central to the University’s mission to end social inequity through life-changing teaching, learning, research, and knowledge exchange, while addressing critical skills shortages in key sectors such as health, education, youth work, and crime investigation. 

This expansion aligns with Marjon’s strategic objective to develop new lifelong learning programmes, ranging from entry-level qualifications to doctoral degrees, with a focus on the public services, professional, and community sectors. The degree apprenticeship offer will be co-designed with local employers and stakeholders to ensure alignment with regional economic needs and to widen access to education across the South West. 

With the South West facing significant skills shortages and an ageing population, this expansion comes at a crucial time. Labour shortages in healthcare, education, and public sectors are placing pressure on local services. Marjon’s degree apprenticeships offer a proactive solution by providing new pathways for individuals from underrepresented groups to enter these critical fields, while also enabling employers to upskill their workforce and attract new employees. 

Plymouth Marjon’s bid was supported by Outsourcery Services, specialist skills consultants to the Further and Higher Education sector. The company helped to develop the University’s bid to make sure it worked to fill gaps in the region’s workforce.  

“We are committed to supporting equity of opportunity,” said Professor Michelle Jones, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Marjon. “Our current apprenticeships already reflect this commitment, with 43% of our apprentices coming from the two most deprived quintiles and 57% from families where no parent has attended higher education. Through targeted outreach, engagement, and marketing, we will further increase participation from underrepresented groups.” 

The programme will be delivered through three work packages, each aimed at increasing access and impact: 

1. A robust programme of activities will target underrepresented groups to drive growth and participation in degree apprenticeships. Partnerships with stakeholders such as Next Steps South West will play a vital role in widening reach and access. 

1. Building on existing relationships, Plymouth Marjon will work closely with local employers to co-create and approve degree apprenticeship programmes that address specific skills shortages. These partnerships will enhance social mobility and provide employers with sustainable talent pipelines. 

1. The University will continue to invest in its infrastructure to support apprentices, including the creation of new support mechanisms such as a pre-degree apprentice digital support programme and the expansion of its Health and Wellbeing Hub, a state-of-the-art facility for health provision and training. 

The expansion of Marjon’s degree apprenticeship programmes has received widespread support from key figures across Plymouth and the South West. 

Cllr Sally Creswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, and Apprenticeships at Plymouth City Council, said:  

“As a city, we do not have enough healthcare professionals, public sector workers, or youth workers to meet growing demand. Marjon’s expanded degree apprenticeships will be vital in addressing these shortages, and I fully endorse this initiative.” 

Tina Brinkworth, Skills Lead for Post 16 Education at Plymouth City Council, echoed this sentiment:  

“There is a genuine need for full L6 degree apprenticeships, particularly in sectors like healthcare and youth work. Marjon’s application aligns perfectly with our Skills4Plymouth strategy.” 

Ronnie Carter, LSIP Project Executive at the Devon and Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, added:  

“Healthcare is a critical focus for our region. Marjon’s strong community reach means that more people will have the opportunity to study and work at a higher level locally.” 

Joanne Hickey, Clinical Skills Manager at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said: 

“I have had the opportunity to witness first-hand the positive impact that Plymouth Marjon University initiatives have had on our business and the community at large. Their team includes skilled professionals who are not only experts in their fields but also passionate about mentoring and developing the next generation of workers.” 

Expanding the University’s degree apprenticeship programmes is vital to addressing the skills shortages facing the South West while advancing equity of opportunity and fostering social mobility. Through partnerships with employers, local authorities, and community organisations, Marjon creates sustainable, impactful pathways for future generations of learners and professionals. 

If you or your young person are looking for the next step and are considering a degree, head to Plymouth Marjon University’s Open Days on Saturday 05 October or Wednesday 27 November to learn more. Secure your space here before it’s too late!