BAME Apprenticeship Participation Research

On behalf of Bradford Metropolitan District Council and Leeds City Council, we undertook a qualitative research study to understand the reasons behind the underrepresentation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic young people in apprenticeships.

Our approach included 19 facilitated focus groups with a total of 140 BAME young people. We engaged with more than 70 community groups, voluntary sector organisations and education providers to act as advocates for the research and consulted on a one-to-one basis with senior stakeholders within the local education and skills arena.

Our report provided the local authorities with recommendations designed to help increase participation in apprenticeships amongst local BAME young people.

Feedback from our clients

  • "It’s a great report, and I’ve submitted it to the Ofsted inspection team." – Strategic Commissioner, local authority

  • “Thanks for such a thoughtful report. It will be very useful to us and other organisations. Another great job from York Consulting!” Local Authority Director

  • “Thank you for this very helpful evaluation. I have only received positive feedback on it. It has been great working with you.” Local Authority Head of Service

  • “Your report was extremely thorough, and I appreciate how responsive you were to our additional requests for analysis.” Government department

  • “The team at York Consulting were professional and a delight to work with. I am very grateful for their input.” Government department

  • "Well done – a lot of work in a short space of time and at such high quality.” Sector Skills Council

  • "Your workshop was extremely well received and enabled managers to gain detailed insight, drawing on your expertise and knowledge.” Senior manager, not-for-profit organisation

  • "It [YCL’s final report] is one of the most impressive evaluation reports I’ve had the pleasure to read.” Principal, Further Education College

  • “YCL staff understand our organisation…I have developed a great relationship with them and I hope to work with them again.” Housing Association

  • “I’ve enjoyed working with you on this project. Thanks for your co-operation and flexibility.” Government department