A multi-institutional exploration of the social mobility potential of degree apprenticeships

This mixed-method study at six universities asked degree apprentices about their trajectories into the apprenticeship, to better understand social mobility potential of apprenticeships. The apprenticeship offers a route for apprentices, who are employees studying degree. As new model, little is known apprentices: they are, journey towards this degree, and whether fulfil aspirations expressed by policymakers. Computing IT in Scotland, UK, were surveyed (n = 160) ask background previous experience. Interviews 28) carried out with one institutions, enquire how backgrounds impacted on point. By taking multi-institutional approach, reports findings across different apprenticeships geographical locations. Apprentices found be drawn from all socio-economic groups represented those work upskillers, already work. For offered belated opportunity degree-level study. However, young people recruited disproportionally more privileged groups. We make recommendations recruitment selection processes increase equality access places.