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This paper outlines research undertaken at a Northern UK university in partnership with a local further education college. The research was underpinned by reference to national policies, government strategies and the findings of others in the field, and involved the collection and analysis of interview and questionnaire data from apprentices and employers; an examination of the local and regional skills profile; liaison with the sector skills council; and the development of a new form of qualification. The outcome of the research was the development of a pilot Higher Level Apprenticeship scheme as a progression route for Level 3 Motor Vehicle apprentices, which combined both academic and professional qualifications and which met the identified Level 4 needs of this group of learners. This research has highlighted not only the need for a new form of work-based progression but has also recognised the direction which such a programme should take as an employer-led and customer-driven course, thus providing wider relevance across the higher education sector than simply its application to its local setting.

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