Ofsted report praises high standard of apprenticeships at University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield has been praised for delivering good quality apprenticeships and having strong links with industry by a recent Ofsted inspection.

The Ofsted report, published today (Tuesday 14 January) following an inspection in November, also praises the University’s apprentices for displaying outstanding behaviour and attitudes.

Sheffield has a number of well established training programmes in engineering and healthcare, which are developed and delivered in collaboration with industry, enabling employers to respond to their current and future specialist skills needs. 

The University’s excellent relationship with employers was highlighted throughout the report, with inspectors recognising the excellent opportunities apprentices have to practice what they learn and benefit from a wide range of different work placements.

Ofsted recognised Sheffield’s commitment to ensuring the content of its curriculum matches the specific needs of employers which, in many cases, extends beyond the requirements of the apprenticeship standard.

The report highlighted that apprentices develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours that they need to be successful in employment and a high proportion of apprentices achieve their qualifications on almost all courses. A substantial proportion of apprentices gain merit or distinction grades.

The University’s apprenticeship training was rated as ‘Good’ for overall effectiveness and judged across the following key areas:

Professor Mary Vincent, Vice-President for Education at the University of Sheffield, said: “There is a national skills gap in nursing and manufacturing in the UK, so here at Sheffield we are working closely with employers to deliver apprenticeships that meet their needs both now and over the coming years, as well as the needs of apprentices who are looking to launch their career in these fields.

“The Ofsted report demonstrates that we are achieving our ambitions for apprenticeship provision at the University. Our apprentices are having a real impact on industry, and we are very proud of what they are achieving.”

Apprentices in the University’s School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery are making a major contribution to frontline NHS services by applying Sheffield’s latest pioneering health research to their practice and developing the leadership and problem-solving skills to practise safely and effectively.

Nichola Crozier, Speech and Language Therapy Apprentice at the University of Sheffield, said: “I had been working as an NHS Speech and Language Therapy assistant since 2009, I knew that I wanted to be a qualified Speech and Language Therapist but going to university to complete a degree didn’t seem feasible due to having a young family, finances etc. 

“The Speech and Language Therapy Apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity for me. Finally making my dream of becoming a qualified SLT a tangible goal.

"I value the teaching and support given to me by the University, but also the fantastic learning opportunities given to me in my place of work by the qualified Speech and Language Therapists I work with everyday at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.”

Stephanie Allen, Apprenticeships Operations Manager in the University of Sheffield’s, School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery said: “Apprenticeships offer a valuable pathway into the healthcare profession, providing practical, on-the-job training alongside academic learning. They give apprentices the opportunity to learn essential clinical skills, gain real-world experience, and a strong foundation for a rewarding career in patient care.

“We are proud that our apprenticeships provide a valuable opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds at different stages of their lives to either begin a career in healthcare or further enhance their careers with new qualifications.”

At the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre, a new generation of engineers is emerging. Apprentices are tackling real-world challenges and driving growth across industries by applying their skills in welding, automation and controls engineering, composites, toolmaking, robotics, mechanical and nuclear manufacturing.

Alex Whinfrey-Gibson made a significant impact for his employer by helping save a remarkable 86 per cent on pump costs.

Alex's apprenticeship journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing him with a sense of purpose and a meaningful way to contribute to the workforce. This journey has now led him to become a STEM ambassador at the AMRC Training Centre.

"My apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre was a transformative experience," said Alex. "It equipped me with the skills and knowledge to succeed in my career and showed me I was capable of much more than I initially thought.

“My own upbringing in Doncaster, an unprivileged working-class background, exposed me to individuals who had great potential but haven't had the opportunities in life to realise their passions and capabilities. 

“I want to change that and give back to the community. This is why I am so passionate about my role as a STEM ambassador at the AMRC Training Centre.”

Nikki Jones, Director at the AMRC Training Centre, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the Ofsted rating, a reflection of the high-quality work happening within the University of Sheffield and specifically at the AMRC Training Centre. 

“It is a privilege to lead this dedicated team, alongside talented apprentices and supportive employers. Their commitment to providing excellent education and skills development for our apprentices is truly inspiring. 

“We are fortunate to collaborate with employers who share our vision. This success is a collective achievement, and I extend my sincere gratitude to all our partners, stakeholders, and of course, our apprentices for their continued support and contribution.”

Read the University’s Ofsted report.

More information on apprenticeships at the University of Sheffield. 

---