The CFA and CIPD are now calling on HR professionals to register their interest in contributing to the development of the apprenticeship. The aim is to create 725 higher apprenticeships by 2016, with the support of a fund of nearly £800,000.
The higher apprenticeship in HR management will provide a new progression route for anyone wishing to pursue a career in HR or business more generally.
This will provide an opportunity to build a pipeline of competent and skilled professionals capable of making a meaningful contribution to the organisations that train them.
Stephanie Bird, director of HR capability at the CIPD, said: "The CIPD strongly supports the creation of Higher Apprenticeships as a route into the professions for people of all ages and from all walks of life. The HR apprenticeship will help to attract the brightest and best talent to a profession that has a crucial role to play in driving productivity and growth for organisations. HR is a rewarding career of choice in itself and can also provide a route into other business disciplines. Gone are the days when HR was a predominantly administrative profession: today's brightest HR professionals display a huge amount of business savvy and are real agents of change who contribute significantly to sustainable organisational growth."
John Hayes, minister of state for further education, skills and lifelong learning, added: "I want more bright young people to build careers in vital professions like human resources, and to receive nationally recognised training to the highest standards. By giving practical learning the same status and recognition as academic study, the Government will help build a stronger economy and redefine the concept of higher education."
CFA chief executive, Jenny Hewell, said: "We are delighted to add the Higher Apprenticeship in human resources to CFA's expanding portfolio of apprenticeship frameworks. The Higher Apprenticeship in Human Resources will enable learners to develop the skills required to ensure that Human Resources are managed effectively in the UK. Higher Apprenticeships are a credible alternative to higher education and will play a vital role in the development of professional knowledge, skills and competencies in the future."
