As we approach the end of the academic year, we’d like to share some of the highlights the collective impact UVAC and its members have made in 2024–25.

UVAC continues to be one of the leading voices in the skills sector on apprenticeships delivered by HE and our membership play an important role in enabling us to influence government policy, learning quality through research and collaboration.

Key Mentions of 2024-2025

In 2024-2025 UVAC’s membership included 76% of all universities approved to deliver apprenticeships. Collectively, these institutions account for 25% of all apprenticeship starts across age groups and levels—and a remarkable 73% of all degree apprenticeship starts. This positions UVAC members at the forefront of delivering high-quality, work-integrated learning in higher education.

Quality assurance across the network is strong. Ofsted ratings show that 15% of members are rated Outstanding, while a further 85% are rated Good in apprenticeships and skills provision. Financially, members generate around £600 million annually from the apprenticeship levy and employer co-investment—demonstrating both the scale and sustainability of their activity.

UVAC’s reach also extends into the public and policy arenas. In 2024–25 alone, its PR and lobbying work engaged over 19.3 million readers through more than 100 articles published across national, regional, sector, and trade media. This visibility strengthens UVAC’s ability to influence thinking at all levels.

Membership also reflects the diversity of UK higher education. Nearly half of UVAC’s HE members are unaffiliated with a formal mission group, while others represent GuildHE, MillionPlus, the Russell Group, and University Alliance—showcasing the broad appeal and inclusivity of UVAC’s work.

Wide portfolio of membership services

In addition to our important lobbying and advocacy work, UVAC also provides a wide portfolio of valuable membership services for those engaged in higher and degree apprenticeships, higher technical education, professional skills, and work-based learning, giving members access to:

• the dissemination of issues of topical interest and information on policy and practice through papers, reports, articles and events
• UVAC’s online journal, HEWSBL
• Black Box is a resource hub
• apprenticeship templates and contracts for apprenticeship delivery
• Live webinar programme
• good practice guides and advisory papers on key learning products, initiatives and policies
• HERA data dashboard to make comparator analysis of your performance
• a programme of conferences, seminars and workshops on contemporary issues in the field of higher level vocational learning
• Degree Apprentices Knowledge Networks

Renewing membership enables UVAC to continue to champion higher level technical professional education and skills delivered by higher educational providers. Membership runs from 1 August to 31 July and renewal reminders are now being sent.

Discover what UVAC membership offers today