New research published by the Science Industry Partnership (SIP) on Thursday 13 February, 2025, has revealed a significant increase in demand for higher level apprenticeships across the science sector over the past five years. The report, conducted by Cogent Skills, shows that these apprenticeships now account for almost one-fifth of all apprenticeships started, highlighting the value that employers place on using them to upskill their workforce.
The research also indicates that larger science-based employers are continuing to use apprenticeships at a sustained level, with significant increases in apprenticeship starts in industries such as pharmaceuticals (31%) and scientific research and development (38%) between 2017/18 and 2021/22. Additionally, 30% of apprenticeships in the life sciences sector were at degree level (Level 6+), demonstrating the sector’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and flexible range of apprenticeship standards, including at degree and master’s level, to help individuals enter the industry and progress their careers.
Chair of the Science Industry Partnership, Alex Felthouse, emphasized the crucial role that the science sector plays in daily life and the importance of having a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce to support its success. Felthouse stated, “This research demonstrates a consistent uptake of apprenticeships in larger employers, as well as increasing numbers in key industries. The importance of higher-level apprenticeships in upskilling existing employees remains – they provide a pathway to increased capability and greater success for individuals and the sector.”
However, the report also highlights a concerning decline of 39% in apprenticeship starts at small and medium-sized science-based employers over the same period. This trend raises concerns about the long-term talent pipeline for the sector.
Established in 2014, the SIP is an employer-led membership alliance committed to the growth and development of a highly skilled, world-class workforce for the science industries. Justine Fosh, CEO of Cogent Skills, acknowledged the challenges faced by SMEs in offering apprenticeships but also highlighted the initiatives in place to support them. Fosh stated, “Initiatives already underway – such as our work with medicines manufacturers, connecting SMEs facing critical skills gaps with sources of training and funding – is helping address these challenges. But more work is needed to move forward together, including protecting vitally important higher-level apprenticeships.”
Despite some challenges, the outlook for apprenticeships in the science sector remains positive, with the SIP and its members committed to playing a crucial role in boosting economic growth in the years to come. However, the report highlights the need for continued support and investment in apprenticeships, particularly at higher levels, to ensure the sector’s long-term success. The full report can be found at https://pressat.co.uk/.
