KPMG will offer a diagnostic service to help employers work out how to get the most value out of the levy and identify where upskilling is required. The OU will then provide the apprenticeships using its online/distance learning model, with three degree level apprenticeships provided initially.

Mark Williamson, partner, KPMG, said: ‘The new levy has the potential to help organisations unlock productivity in their workforce by upskilling employees in areas which align to their overall commercial objectives.  This will enable them not only to plug current skills gaps, but reshape their workforce to meet the future demands of their business.

‘Under the new rules, apprenticeships can be applied to almost any job role. Employers can use the levy to deliver training to every layer of their organisation, from school leavers to executives, and truly embed the skills needed to meet their commercial ambitions.’

Initially, three higher level apprenticeships will be provided focusing on healthcare, chartered management and digital and technical solutions. The first of these programmes will be delivered in October 2016, with the partnership planning to expand into new areas in the future, with other universities and training providers.

 Ian Howell, director, business development unit at the OU, said: ‘By working together with KPMG, we can not only help organisations tap into unlocked potential of their people, but help increase the confidence and skills of individuals in key sectors for the benefit of our national economy.’

The announcement follows the government’s plan to introduce the apprenticeship levy in its efforts to boost UK productivity with a target of encouraging three million people to take up apprenticeships by 2020. From April 2017, large employers – with a pay bill over £3m each year – will be required to contribute to the new levy to help fund apprenticeship training for UK businesses.