In our recent webinar, Fabienne Bailey, CEO of Gateway Qualifications, and Ben Rowland, CEO at AELP, discussed the evolving landscape of apprenticeships and the implications of recent government announcements.
Adapting to Change in the Apprenticeship Sector
Fabienne Bailey opened the discussion by highlighting the dynamic nature of the sector. She emphasised the agility and responsiveness of the industry in adapting to positive changes and uncertainties alike. Fabienne underscored the importance of understanding the impact of end-point assessments (EPA) on providers and apprentices, stressing the need for collaboration to navigate these changes effectively.
Skills England and the Industrial Strategy
“We need to understand what it means for skills in our sector and how we need to respond as an EPAO, so we can provide the right services to support you as providers and support the apprentices and employers.”
Fabienne provided an overview of Skills England, a new arms-length body aimed at supporting the government’s skills strategy. She noted the focus on eight key growth driving sectors, with the addition of construction and health as being essential areas. Despite some scepticism, she encouraged a positive response to these changes, emphasising the sector’s ability to adapt and thrive.
The discussion then shifted to recent government announcements, highlighting the Labour Party’s 2024 manifesto, which focuses on breaking down barriers to opportunity, particularly in post-16 education.
Challenges and Opportunities in Apprenticeships
Fabienne addressed several challenges facing the apprenticeship sector, including the removal of English and maths requirements for adult apprenticeships and the potential impact on younger apprentices. She expressed concerns about the attractiveness of adult apprenticeships to employers and the recruitment of 16 to 18-year-olds.
Fabienne also discussed the shortening of apprenticeship durations and the introduction of trailblazer apprenticeships in shortage occupation areas. She highlighted the potential changes to end point assessment, including the separation of assessment activity for knowledge, skills, and behaviours, emphasising the importance of maintaining quality in shorter-duration apprenticeships and the need for independent assessors to ensure high standards.
Insights from Ben Rowland
“…metaphorical spring has sprung in our sector, but there are one or two green shoots that I think can give us some confidence.”
Ben Rowland provided additional insights, focusing on the announcements made during National Apprenticeship Week. He discussed the importance of independent assessment and the potential benefits of shorter-duration apprenticeships for mid-career professionals. Ben also addressed the government’s approach to level seven apprenticeships and the role of Skills England in supporting the skills system.
Ben also discussed the functional skills reform, focusing on the curriculum and assessment review for 16 to 18-year-olds. He hopes that this review will encourage schools to move away from the notion that maths and English GCSEs are the only standards for demonstrating baseline capability in these key areas. This shift could potentially open the door for apprenticeship rules to be extended from adult apprentices to 16 to 18-year-olds, which he believes would be beneficial for the reasons Fabienne discussed earlier in the session. Ben envisions a positive outcome where many individuals who are currently stuck in an apprenticeship or deterred from starting one due to the requirement of having level four GCSEs before beginning will have new opportunities.
Another announcement is about payment simplification. The Department for Education (DfE) plans to make the Individualised Learner Record (ILR) the master set of data by the next academic year, with employers signing off on the Direct Access Scheme (DAS). This change will eliminate the D-lock, which has been problematic and painful for many involved. While this may not affect End-point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs), providers will certainly understand the relief this can bring.
There are many more changes that have been suggested for the apprenticeship sector, and the consensus is for a strong voice from all to get these changes right.
If you’d like to know more about our end-point assessment services, please get in touch with us using our contact form or call our dedicated End-point Assessment team on 01206 911 211.