South Yorkshire university and college collaboration provides Higher Technical Qualifications
An agreement between Sheffield Hallam University and four South Yorkshire Further Education colleges means regional skills shortages are being addressed, with a brighter future for students.
Barnsley College, DN Colleges Group, RNN Group, and The Sheffield College are delivering new Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) in shared venture to make better equip learners with the skills needed in the modern job market.
HTQs provide a way into quality roles with employers which offer long-term security and good renumeration. They work for both continuing students over 18 and adults looking to retrain or upskill.
They are new level 4 and 5 qualifications that can follow on from level 3 studies such as A levels or T Levels, and include qualifications such as higher national certificates, higher national diplomas, and foundation degrees. The first digital HTQs launched in September 2022 and a full rollout of 15 occupational sectors will be complete by 2025. The education sector sees HTQs as a chance to transform the learning environment with learners benefitting from industry-relevant skills and enhancing their employability.
To support this collaborative effort, and the delivery of HTQs, the region has secured £1.3 million from the Government's Higher Technical Education Skills Injection Fund.
The aim is to support the number of learners studying T Levels and other level 3 courses, progressing onto level 4 and 5 courses, and beyond, also connecting with the Lifelong Learning Entitlement. It is also hoped the profile of Higher Technical Qualifications will rise across South Yorkshire by informing communities about what is available.
There are many ways HTQs help learners start careers or embark on a new direction. Employers are behind the qualifications which ensures the right skills are being learned & applied. The qualifications are also approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education, which means the standard is high both academically and in industry. The same student finance as Degree level study is also available.
HTQs are now available across South Yorkshire, having been rolled out in stages since 2022. To find out more about what is available within the South Yorkshire College Partnership Group, please visit please visit the links below:
Barnsley College
DN Colleges Group
RNN Group
The Sheffield College