Degree and Higher Level Apprenticeships: An Empirical Investigation of Stakeholder Perceptions of Challenges and Opportunities

The aim of this paper is to explore the challenges and opportunities of designing and delivering Degree and Higher Level Apprenticeships (D&HLAs) at levels 4 - 7 from a multi-stakeholder perspective namely employers, Universities, independent training organisations and professional bodies. 27 face to face interviews were undertaken and thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data. The following three themes emerged from the data analysis: programme design; programme delivery; and graduate attributes. We conclude that whilst there are increasing numbers of trailblazer groups developing higher level standards, the uptake of apprenticeships at these levels remains relatively low. Although stakeholders support the principle of D&HLAs, we identify a number of challenges and opportunities facing those who seek to successful introduction these programmes. Our policy recommendations include the need for all stakeholders to work collaboratively to co-create a flexible system to support the validity and relevance of D&HLAs. This will include streamlining and mapping the variety of qualifications currently available in order to promote a platform for parity of both esteem and opportunity for those achieving degree qualifications through the apprenticeship route

Linear habitats across a range of farming intensities contribute differently to dipteran abundance and diversity

While the value of linear farm habitats for the protection and enhancement of farmland biodiversity in general is known, less is understood about their contribution to Diptera, especially those with different ecological requirements. In this study, we examined the impact of a range of linear farm habitats in agricultural grassland on Syrphidae and Sciomyzidae (Diptera) both of which provide important ecosystem services. Species richness and abundance for each family were measured across five different linear habitat types (dense and open hedgerows with/without adjacent watercourses and watercourses only). While dense hedgerows with adjacent watercourses showed the greatest numbers of Syrphidae species and individuals, open hedgerows with adjacent watercourses had significantly more Sciomyzidae species and individuals than dense hedgerows without watercourses or open hedgerows only. Syrphidae species richness was significantly correlated with the flowering plant species richness of linear habitats, while Sciomyzidae species richness was correlated with a habitat quality score for grasslands adjacent to the linear habitats. Overall, Syrphidae and Sciomyzidae species richness and community composition are shown to reflect a farming intensity gradient with significantly greater species richness for both families on extensive farms. Our results suggest that different dipteran taxa which utilise linear habitats may have different requirements. This has implications for future agri-environmental schemes in the context of how we assess the conservation value of linear habitats on farmlands. © 2020 Royal Entomological Societ

Diagnostic definitions and figures of male and female Tetanocera punctifrons and T. latifibula, new records of T. punctifrons in Ireland, and notes on biology (Diptera, Sciomyzidae).

The presence of Tetanocera punctifrons Rondani, 1868 in Ireland is reconfirmed. The species is distinguished from the very similar T. latifibula Frey, 1924. The female abdomens of both species are described for the first time. The distributions of both species are summarised. The history of type examinations and of taxonomists conceptions of the two species is tracked, especially the relative reliability of published figures of diagnostic features. We emphasise the need for such analyses of rare and closely related species, even if apparently disjunct in distribution. Habitats of T. punctifrons and T. latifibula are described, and the biology and morphology of the immature stages are compared.peer-reviewe

Diagnostic definitions and figures of male and female Tetanocera punctifrons and T. latifibula, new records of T. punctifrons in Ireland, and notes on biology (Diptera, Sciomyzidae).

The presence of Tetanocera punctifrons Rondani, 1868 in Ireland is reconfirmed. The species is distinguished from the very similar T. latifibula Frey, 1924. The female abdomens of both species are described for the first time. The distributions of both species are summarised. The history of type examinations and of taxonomists conceptions of the two species is tracked, especially the relative reliability of published figures of diagnostic features. We emphasise the need for such analyses of rare and closely related species, even if apparently disjunct in distribution. Habitats of T. punctifrons and T. latifibula are described, and the biology and morphology of the immature stages are compared