Building a diverse workforce through higher/degree apprenticeships

At Guapo, we believe that Higher and Degree Apprenticeships (HDAs) are essential for addressing digital skills shortages and promoting economic mobility for disadvantaged youth. However, research highlights that access to HDAs remains unequal, particularly for young people from underrepresented backgrounds. Employers have a crucial role in ensuring these pathways are truly inclusive and reflective of diverse talent.

Why Employers Must Take Action?

Addressing the Digital Skills Gap:

The UK faces a growing shortage of skilled tech professionals, and employers struggle to fill vacancies. HDAs offer a practical, experience-based route into high-demand industries, yet recruitment remains largely homogenous. Expanding access to underrepresented groups can help companies build a resilient and diverse workforce while meeting industry needs.

Tackling Social Inequities:

Traditional academic routes do not work for everyone, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. HDAs offer an alternative that allows individuals to gain qualifications, earn a salary, and progress in their careers without accumulating student debt. Research highlights that underrepresented groups often face barriers to accessing apprenticeships, limiting their opportunities for economic mobility. Employers who actively recruit from these groups can help break cycles of exclusion while fostering social and economic inclusion.

Driving Innovation & Business Growth:

Diverse teams bring new perspectives, drive creativity, and improve problem-solving. Companies that prioritise inclusive hiring not only enhance workplace culture but also position themselves as leaders in innovation. As workforce expectations evolve, businesses that fail to invest in inclusive recruitment may struggle to attract top talent and remain competitive.

Key Insights from Research:

• Barriers to Access Remain – Young people from disadvantaged backgrounds often face structural obstacles, including a lack of awareness about HDAs, limited industry connections, and financial constraints.

• Retention Improves with Support – Employers who invest in mentorship, career development, and workplace inclusion see higher apprentice satisfaction and long-term loyalty.

• Impact on Society – HDAs provide alternatives to unemployment, economic exclusion, and social instability. Expanding access can help reduce inequality while strengthening communities.

How Employers Can Lead Change:

1. Expand Outreach & Recruitment – Engage with schools, community organisations, and grassroots initiatives to connect with diverse talent.

2. Provide Holistic Support – Invest in mentorship, career counselling, and structured development programs to help apprentices succeed.

3. Reframe the Value of Apprenticeships – Promote HDAs as a credible and valuable alternative to traditional degrees by showcasing success stories and career progression opportunities.

The Future of Work is Inclusive:

The workplace is changing rapidly. Advances in automation, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation are reshaping industries. To keep pace, businesses need to cultivate a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. However, if hiring practices do not evolve alongside these changes, inequality in access to emerging career opportunities will persist.

• A Shift Toward Skills-Based Hiring – Companies are moving away from degree-only recruitment, placing greater emphasis on skills and experience. HDAs provide an effective model for this transition, allowing employers to develop talent in-house.

• The Rise of Inclusive Workplaces – Younger generations expect diversity, equity, and inclusion to be central to workplace culture. Companies that fail to reflect these values will struggle to attract and retain talent.

• The Need for Lifelong Learning – As job roles evolve, continuous upskilling will be critical. Employers who embed learning into the workplace through apprenticeships will be better positioned for the future economy.

Employers who embrace diverse apprenticeships will play a key role in shaping a more equitable and skilled workforce. Guapo is committed to driving this change, ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have access to meaningful career opportunities. The time to act is now—building an inclusive future starts with prioritising diverse apprenticeships today.