Kingston University expands retail leadership apprenticeship degree through new partnership with Dunelm

Kingston University has reinforced its commitment to developing the next generation of business leaders by partnering with Dunelm, the UK's market-leading homewares retailer, to provide new Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship places. 

The collaboration saw its first apprentices start in September. It builds on the success of Kingston’s pioneering Retail Leadership BSc (Hons) degree which launched in 2024, and reflects the University’s mission to support the needs of a rapidly evolving UK labour market.

The programme currently supports 108 apprentices across multiple retail employers, including 10 from Dunelm, who benefit from a blend of academic study and hands-on industry experience. As part of their induction, students visited Dunelm's Kingston store. They gained first-hand insight into retail operations, customer experience and leadership in practice from the outset of their studies.

The Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship provides opportunities for students from a wide range of backgrounds, including those who may not have followed traditional academic routes. Students can earn while they learn, gain hands‑on retail experience and progress into leadership roles. As retailers across the UK adapt to new technologies, shifting consumer expectations and increasing demand for skilled managers, the programme equips apprentices with the practical and strategic capabilities required to thrive in modern retail environments.

Growing the partnership model

Dunelm’s involvement marks the next phase of Kingston University’s strategy to collaborate with forward‑thinking retailers committed to developing talent from within their organisations and widening access to higher education. The University is actively seeking to expand the programme with additional retail partners in the coming years.

Professor Sankar Sivarajah, Head of Kingston Business School, said the partnership with Dunelm created a valuable pathway for people who want to grow their careers while gaining a high‑quality degree.

“The UK retail sector is undergoing significant transformation and employers need adaptable, skilled leaders who understand both the operational and strategic demands of the industry,” he said.

Echoing this, Head of Department of Management Victoria Walsh added that the partnership combined academic excellence with practical workplace experience, helping apprentices develop the skills they need to succeed in leadership roles. “Our programme is expanding because it delivers what the sector needs—skilled, confident leaders ready to drive innovation and strengthen the future of retail,” she said.

Sunita Fellows, Dunelm Early Careers Manager commented on the Retail Leadership Degree Apprenticeship. “At Dunelm, we believe in helping our colleagues build long‑term, fulfilling careers. Partnering with Kingston University allows us to offer a structured, supportive route into retail leadership for people who want to learn, grow and make a real impact in our business,” she said.

• Find out more about degree apprenticeships at Kingston University
• Find out more about studying at Kingston Business School