Gold says that she’s “very supportive” of the government’s plans to introduce 40,000 new apprenticeship schemes, and notes that they’re a great way of earning experience, as well as offering women a chance to “really understand what work is”.

Likewise, Katie Ledger, a leading communications consultant, says that updates in technology and social media have very much changed the the importance of a degree. The old saying “it’s who you know, not what you know” has never been more appropriate.

“Although qualifications can often help you get a foot on the ladder, professional networking sites such as LinkedIn have helped level the playing field considerably. Being connected to millions of professionals on LinkedIn can remove many of the boundaries traditionally associated with getting a foot in the door or accessing an opportunity. Some of the great women in the business didn’t attend university, but by being proactive and pursuing personal dreams of success, they made it, and being connected to leading professionals can obviously improve your chances.”

Essentially, it’s down to each women to do what they feel is right, and to follow their own path. And as Jacqueline says, “I would hope that my and other entrepreneur’s success inspires people to realise that you don’t need a degree to succeed. You need drive, passion and the ability to grab an opportunity and make it work for you.”

For more information on apprenticeships:

apprenticeships.org.uk

direct.gov.uk

Do you think you need a degree to be successful? Share your views in the comments area below.

Does a degree equal success?