South Yorkshire university and colleges work together to deliver new HTQs and bridge the skills gap
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are a new pathway to better, more secure jobs for students – which is why Sheffield Hallam University is working with four South Yorkshire Further Education colleges to address skills shortages.
The shared venture with Barnsley College, DN Colleges Group, RNN Group and The Sheffield College will better equip learners with the skills they need for a brighter future in the modern jobs market.
HTQs are a route to quality roles with employers which offer longer-term prospects as well as high rewards. Courses are available for continuing students aged over 18, as well as adults who are looking for opportunities to retrain or upskill.
The new Level 4 and 5 qualifications 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.
Initial digital HTQs were launched in September 2022, with a full roll-out of 15 occupational sectors to be completed by 2025. The education sector considers HTQs as an opportunity to transform the learning landscape by offering industry-relevant skills as well as enhanced employability.
Injection of funds to boost delivery of HTQs
The collaboration has been supported with £1.3m for the region, from the Government’s Higher Technical Education Skills Injection Fund.
Increasing the number of learners studying T Levels and other Level 3 courses, with progression on to Level 4 and 5 courses, will help to boost skills as well as connect with the Lifelong Learning Entitlement. The funding will also help to raise the profile of HTQs across South Yorkshire by informing communities about the improved prospects they provide.
Employers are behind the new qualifications, to ensure that relevant skills are being learned and applied. HTQs are also approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education, meaning that standards are high, both academically and in the workplace.
There are a lot of ways in which HTQs can help learners to start their careers or embark on a new direction. The same student finance that Degree level study offers is also available.
Find out more about the range of HTQs which are now available across South Yorkshire. Follow these links to the College Partnership Group below:
Barnsley College
DN Colleges Group
RNN Group
The Sheffield College