Discovery Park Businesses Champion Higher Apprenticeships to Build STEM Talent Pipeline
Sandwich, UK – 9 February 2026: To mark National Apprenticeship Week (9 – 15 February), Kent’s science and technology hub Discovery Park is calling for more young people to consider higher apprenticeships as a route into rewarding careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths).
Last year, 3,850 young people in Kent started a higher apprenticeship programme, a 22% increase on the previous year. Higher apprenticeships include degree apprenticeships – where students gain a full undergraduate or master’s degree without student fees – and also Higher National Diplomas and foundation-level qualifications. These courses allow students to gain essential qualifications and invaluable work experience whilst earning a salary.
Discovery Park currently has 21 higher apprentices on programme at the site, working in companies including Pfizer and Asymchem. Their apprenticeships range from science roles to project management.
Phoebe Everitt, who is undertaking an apprenticeship in data science at Pfizer, said: “Starting an apprenticeship at Pfizer has given me many opportunities that I wouldn’t have received without being in the workplace. It has allowed me to experience working in a professional environment and seeing how what I learn in my degree is practically used in the field of data science. I am getting to work towards my degree while gaining work experience and many new practical skills that will be useful in future.
“I have also found Pfizer to be a very supportive place to work and it’s allowed me to meet many people who have a variety of experience that they can pass on to me.”
Not-for-profit Cogent Skills delivers apprenticeship programmes at Discovery Park and across the UK. As a science and technology specialist, Cogent provides development opportunities for young people while helping businesses access the skilled talent they need.
Tim Mahoney, Skills Account Manager at Cogent Skills, said: “Higher apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to build a skilled STEM workforce. They provide students with high-level qualifications alongside real, hands-on experience in industry. For employers, they offer a direct route to work-ready talent with the specialist skills the science and technology sectors urgently need. We’re proud to work with Discovery Park to support both young people and businesses across Kent and beyond.”
Chris Broom, Head of Business Development at Discovery Park, added: “The South East has the highest levels of life science employment in the UK – even ahead of London. As a major Kent employer, we see firsthand how higher apprenticeships are transforming lives. Young people gain world-class qualifications without student debt, while businesses develop their talent pipeline for the future. It’s a win-win that more young people should consider.”
Apprenticeship opportunities are currently available at Discovery Park, offering salaries of £20,500 per annum. Interested applicants can view vacancies and apply via Cogent’s website.
As part of Discovery Park’s commitment to STEM education, a new sixth form, named Carbon 6 Academy of Science, will open onsite in September 2026, allowing students to study A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths. The school will bring education and industry together, providing real world experience and clear routes into higher apprenticeships and STEM careers. https://discovery-park.co.uk/lp/carbon-6-academy-of-science/
