Colleges join with Sheffield Hallam University to bridge the gap with Higher Technical Qualifications
An agreement with Sheffield Hallam University and four of South Yorkshire's Further Education colleges – Barnsley College, DN Colleges Group, RNN Group, and The Sheffield College – has been designed to address skills shortages in the business world. At the heart of the collaboration are the new Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) which help learners develop the talent needed in the modern job market.
HTQs – level 4 and 5 qualifications – lead on from level 3 studies such as A levels or T Levels. They include qualifications such as higher national certificates, higher national diplomas, and foundation degrees. The new qualifications provide an opportunity to go on to secure well-paid, secure, and long-term employment. And, they are applicable for adults looking to retrain or upskill. HTQs are already transforming education after the first digital HTQs were launched in September 2022. The full 15 occupational sectors will be covered by 2025, giving learners much-needed skills and helping their job prospects.
To support this collaborative effort, and the delivery of HTQs, the region has been successful in securing £1.3 million from the Government's Higher Technical Education Skills Injection Fund. Working together on the provision of Higher Technical Qualifications at Level 4 and Level 5 will support the regional pipeline of learners undertaking T-Levels and other Level 3 courses into Level 4 and 5 courses and beyond, connecting to developments in the Lifelong Loan Entitlement. It will also maximise the potential to raise the profile of Higher Technical Qualifications on a regional basis, pooling efforts to improve understanding across our communities.
There are many advantages to HTQs for these looking to further their careers or want a new challenge. They are led by employers and are fully approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education, meaning learners have what industry is asking for. Finance available for Degree level study is also available, allowing and accessible to progress for learners.
Having already been rolled out in stages since 2022, HTQs are already available to study in South Yorkshire. To find out more about what is available within the South Yorkshire College Partnership Group, please visit the links below:
Barnsley College
DN Colleges Group
RNN Group
The Sheffield College