University of London is Leveraging the Levy
Founding LAIN member, University of London commissioned a piece of work to explore how the university and its 17 federation members can do more to support apprenticeships and make the most of the considerable apprenticeship levy contribution each institution makes.
The report estimates that over £10 million is contributed annually in apprenticeship levies across the University of London federation, but at least 75% of this funding expires unused each year - a significant missed opportunity.
Apprenticeships offer benefits to both institutions and individuals, by creating learn as you work opportunities and helping universities recruit to hard-to-fill posts, boost retention and develop a more inclusive and representative workforce. To maximise these opportunities and support universities’ wider strategic objectives, the report makes six key recommendations:
Ensure strong senior sponsorship of apprenticeships
Build-up HR staff capacity and expertise to expand and support high-quality apprenticeships
Maximise opportunities for structured collaborative working and best-practice sharing
Undertake cross-organisational communications activity to build the reputation of and appetite for apprenticeships
Work to promote, recruit and support apprenticeships
Maximise the transfer of unspent levy funds to small and medium sized businesses, enabling them to take on apprentices.
The report provides valuable insights and recommendations to fellow LAIN members looking to expand their apprenticeship schemes.
There are significant learnings in the report for fellow LAIN members.