Sue Parr has been appointed director of apprenticeships at WMG, which is an academic department at the University of Warwick.

She joined WMG in December 2015 to develop its professional and executive programmes, following 12 years at the Open University, where she was director of executive education.

Following the success of WMG’s applied engineering and Dyson degree programmes, it is now extending the degree apprenticeship provision across engineering, digital, cyber security and health-care.

The degree apprenticeship programmes complement the existing academic and professional courses and enable WMG to enhance its students’ employability and skills.

Crucially, they help to widen access and participation by introducing alternative entry criteria, new flexible modes of study and new models of delivery.

Through Ms Parr’s leadership — in partnership with employers — WMG will continue to create sector-leading degree apprenticeships at undergraduate and postgraduate levels that offer innovative thinking and engaging learning experiences.

Ms Parr said: “Building on work that we have done to develop educational programmes to meet business needs, we are partnering with leading employers to deliver a range of degree apprenticeships.

“Our programmes give new recruits or existing staff in-work opportunities to develop new skills, while also studying for a recognised degree from a top-10 UK university.

“Degree apprenticeships are an exciting alternative route to higher education; and while it can be challenging to balance a full-time job and study, they are an excellent opportunity for individuals to progress their career.”