Two Sixth Form students from Loughborough Grammar School are celebrating the results of their hard work and determination having secured highly competitive degree apprenticeships with top UK companies, reflecting the growing interest in alternative post-18 pathways.
Year 13 pupils Matthew and Harry have received offers to begin degree apprenticeships this September with Rolls-Royce and Gateley Smithers Purslow, respectively. Their success follows months of dedicated preparation and a rigorous selection process involving hundreds of applicants from across the country.
Degree apprenticeships offer students the opportunity to gain a full undergraduate qualification while working within a professional environment, combining academic study with real-world experience. With increasing numbers of applicants and limited places available, these positions are now among the most sought-after career routes for school leavers.
Matthew will be joining the Engineering programme at Rolls-Royce. “This was my first-choice pathway, so I was really pleased to be offered a place,” he said. “I felt confident after the interview, but I knew that there were many other great candidates who received an interview. It’s exciting to know I’ll be working on real projects alongside experienced engineers.”
Harry, who has secured a place on a Building Surveying apprenticeship at Gateley Smithers Purslow, added: “I was over the moon when I got the offer. It was a shock given how competitive it was – there were around 600 applicants, including people who already hold degrees.”
The pair were supported throughout the process by Miss Sarra Jenkins, Director of Future Pathways, who works closely with Sixth Form students as they explore the full range of options beyond school, including university, apprenticeships and employment.
“The increase in students applying for apprenticeships is significant,” said Miss Jenkins. “The GOV.UK figures from November 2024 showed a 7% increase to over 50,000 apprenticeship starts at Level 6 and 7 (degree and Masters level apprenticeships), with this now accounting for nearly 14% of all apprenticeship starts.”
“My role is to fully support the boys throughout their application process, providing advice and interview practice, as well as encouraging them to think as broadly as possible about all the different post-18 routes they might want to take.”
Matthew praised the school’s guidance: “The interview advice and help with developing my portfolio made a big difference.” Harry agreed, adding that a Year 12 assembly had been pivotal in opening his eyes to the degree apprenticeships route. “The idea of earning a salary while working towards a degree – and avoiding student debt – really appealed to me. It’s the best of both worlds.”
As they prepare for their final exams this summer, both students are looking forward to beginning the next chapter of their education in a professional setting.
Headmaster James Neville commented: “We’re proud to support our boys in whatever path they choose, whether that’s a traditional university route or a competitive degree apprenticeship. Our aim is to help each pupil understand their strengths and ambitions, and ensure they are fully prepared to pursue them with confidence.”
