HLSM Plus

Aston University is proud to be a partner in the Higher Level Skills Match Plus (HLSM Plus) programme, which is designed to connect talented graduates with businesses based in Birmingham. This fully funded graduate recruitment service has been implemented to address skills gaps, foster business growth, and improve graduate retention in the region.

What is HLSM Plus?

HLSM Plus is a collaboration between Aston University, Birmingham City University, University College Birmingham, and the University of Birmingham. The programme is focused on ensuring businesses can access the skilled workforce they need to thrive while helping graduates secure meaningful employment. 

The programme offers a range of benefits for businesses, including: 
    •    Identifying skills needs: We work with you to understand your specific workforce requirements. 
    •    Connecting you to talent: Gain access to a diverse pool of over 38,000 final-year students, graduates, and postgraduates from across the region. 
    •    End-to-end recruitment support: Save time and reduce recruitment costs with our comprehensive service. 
    •    Promoting workforce diversity: The programme aims to support graduates from a variety of backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented and disadvantaged groups. 
    •    Tailored skills workshops: Co-design skills sessions to ensure your workforce is equipped to meet your business needs. 
    •    On-the-job guidance: Graduates are mentored and supported throughout their first 12 months, promoting retention and progression. 

How does HLSM Plus work?

Once you join the programme, you’ll be assigned a dedicated Account Manager to understand your recruitment needs. Following a skills assessment, your Account Manager will work with the HLSM Plus network to identify and shortlist the best candidates for your vacancies. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate with a Graduate Consultant to co-design tailored job preparation courses, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to contribute to your business from day one. 

Graduates placed through HLSM Plus benefit from ongoing guidance for their first 12 months of employment, helping them settle into their roles and excel within your organisation. 

The service is available to you until March 2026, with continued support to help identify future vacancies and address evolving skills requirements. 

How to Get Involved

If your business operates within Birmingham, you may be eligible to access this service. 

To find out more about how HLSM Plus can help your business, contact our Careers and Placements Employer Team: 
0121 204 5299 

employerteam@aston.ac.uk