A UNIVERSITY has received almost £250,000 worth of funding to support degree apprenticeships in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

Teesside University has been awarded a grant from the Higher Education Funding Council for England to fund the new apprentices, which are becoming increasingly popular and are co-designed by employers to bring together educational and vocational on-the-job training.

The new apprenticeships are due to start in September 2018, and will be delivered in subject areas including engineering, laboratory science, digital technologies and logistics.

Laura Woods, director of The Forge, Teesside University's business hub, said: “Teesside is committed to delivering Degree Apprenticeships as part of its core activity, addressing both the current and future skills needs of employers, graduate employability, widening access, and education and employment opportunities in the region."

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added:“This funding for STEM degree apprenticeships is a welcome investment in our region’s economic future.

“This is a vote of confidence in Teesside University and the wider Tees Valley area," he added.