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<p>The department recognises the critical value of science, technology, engineering,
and maths (STEM) in driving the economy and productivity. Ensuring that anyone, regardless
of their background, can pursue a career in a STEM occupation is a key priority for
this government.</p><p>Apprenticeships are a great way for people to receive high-quality
training and begin, or progress in, a successful STEM career. The department has put
employers at the heart of our apprenticeship system, empowering them to design the
standards they need with the help of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical
Education. There are over 340 employer-designed apprenticeship standards in STEM,
including Cyber Security Technician at level 3, Space Engineer Technician at level
4 and Aero Space Engineer (degree) at level 6.</p><p>It is encouraging to see that
in the 2021/22 academic year, there were 66,000 apprenticeship starts in STEM, making
up 32.3% of all apprenticeship starts that year.</p><p>The department continues to
promote apprenticeships in schools through the Apprenticeship Support & Knowledge
programme and is working with our Apprenticeship Diversity Champions Network of influential
employers such as Siemens, Bombardier, and Rolls-Royce to promote best practices in
recruiting and retaining people from all backgrounds in STEM apprenticeships.</p>
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