The University of Exeter won in the 'Commitment to Diversity' and 'Supporting Talent' categories for its degree apprenticeship programmes at last week's Tech South West Awards.
Exeter was singled-out by judges at a glittering awards ceremony at Sandy Park for using degree apprenticeships to create a "truly impactful talent pipeline bridging academia and industry, filling skills gaps while widening participation".
Exeter was also praised for its "clear commitment to diversifying the tech sector with impressive impact for employers across the region" at the prestigious awards, which celebrate organisations driving innovation across the South West tech sector.
The University of Exeter is the biggest provider of degree apprenticeships in the South West and was among the first in the country to offer the qualification.
Degree apprenticeships at Exeter give school leavers and upskillers access to a Russell Group education while they gain vital experience in the workplace, at the same time removing the fiscal barriers associated with the 'standard route' into university.
They have a direct impact on the tech sector through the Level 6 and Level 7 Digital and Technology Solutions programmes, which offer specialisms in data analysis, cyber security, software engineering, IT consultancy and business analysis, and the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship, which is used by managers within the Tech Sector to boost their knowledge and experience.
Dan Hallam, Head of Degree Apprenticeships at the University of Exeter, said: "On what was a great night, it was such an honour to receive two Tech South West Awards for Commitment to Diversity and Supporting Talent, values that are at the heart of our work, and I congratulate our multi-talented team, whose hard work and dedication made this recognition possible.
"Whilst we work with employers and apprentices across England, we are particularly committed to supporting the diverse talent within our local communities, which is why so many of our apprentices and employer partners are based in the South West, and curating our degree apprenticeship programmes in conjunction with employer partners allows us to identify and address local skills gaps - something we believe makes our programmes unique."
The University of Exeter has a strong and continuing commitment to diversity, innovation and community, as reflected in its Strategy 2030 in which it pledges to use the power of education, research and partnerships to make the world a fairer, greener and healthier place for all.
