It is important that everyone with a vested interest in apprenticeships and assessments shares their views in Ofqual’s public consultation, which closes on the 27th August.
The Federation of Awarding Bodies recently responded to the proposed changes in apprenticeship reforms through an article in FE News.
Tasha Joyce, EPA Operations Manager at Gateway Qualifications, agrees and recognises the need for change. Simplifying assessment plans and making them more proportionate is a step in the right direction. However, this must not come at the expense of quality or the apprentice experience.
“While a lot needs to be considered, we are waiting for feedback from the first five plans that have undergone a trial review from Skills England, and questions remain unanswered on consistency, comparability, quality, cost and prevention of that ‘race to the bottom’”, Tasha says.
However, the reforms should be seen as a positive. There are changes that we can all consider for the better, but maintain consistency. Employers, providers, and EPAOs need to work together to shape a system that is fair, effective, and future-proof.
Tasha continues: “This should be done whilst maintaining high-quality design, development and delivery, with the apprentice being at the forefront of this thinking. Everyone we speak to is committed to maintaining the quality and significance of apprenticeships.”
The best way to do this is to read the proposals, ask questions, and most importantly, have your say in this consultation.
One of the proposals under discussion is whether assessments should remain fully with Awarding/Assessment Organisations or be shared with Providers. Our view is clear: any shift must be justified with robust evidence and must not compromise the independence that underpins trust in the system.
“These decisions should have full and clear justification for their strategies, ensuring validity, reliability, and overall confidence in apprenticeships. We must also maintain the independence of assessments, which has significantly improved the quality, trust and confidence in apprenticeship standards.”
Change is coming, but it must be shaped by those who know apprenticeships best. Join the conversation, share your expertise, and help build a system that works for everyone. The consultation is open until 27 August.