Manchester City Council is a long-standing partner of Manchester Met, spanning back to the days of Manchester Polytechnic. In recent years, Manchester Met has worked closely with the Council to deliver a variety of degree apprenticeship roles, we spoke to June Knowles, HR Specialist, to find out more.

How long have you been working with Manchester Met as an apprenticeship partner?

We’ve been working with the University as an apprenticeship partner since the apprenticeship levy was first introduced in 2017. Manchester Met was one of the very first partners we started working with.

What type of Degree Apprenticeships has the Council been able to offer through Manchester Met?

The Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship has been a big one, it was the first apprenticeship we partnered with the University to deliver.

We initially worked quite closely to ensure the programme was bespoke for Health and Social Care Management, with it going on to become a pathway, not just for Local Authorities, but for NHS colleagues as well. As an opportunity, it’s been outstandingly successful.

How have degree apprenticeships been able to support existing staff?

We’ve primarily used degree apprenticeships to support the development of existing staff, some of whom may never have considered undertaking a traditional degree. It’s been a great incentive for staff, that’s affordable, and presents not only an opportunity for development but a chance to network with leadership peers across the region.

What’s been the most important thing to come out of the partnership?

Social work is a vital part of what we offer as an organisation to support the people of Manchester. It can be a demanding role and the Degree Apprenticeship programme has helped retain and provide development opportunities for staff through a non-traditional pathway. It is an incredibly successful and popular course, that’s had a massive impact on both people’s lives and the Greater Manchester community.

Why are you proud to work with Manchester Met?

We’re proud to work with Manchester Met as an award-winning degree apprenticeship provider. The standard of apprenticeships provided is excellent and the team has both a flexible approach and a fantastic grasp of the realities of what employers need. As both a trusted and historic partner, we’re immensely proud to work with Manchester Met.

You can find out more about Apprenticeships at Manchester Met by visiting: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/apprenticeships.