NCFE has been hard at work on our response to this important consultation which has now been submitted to the Government.
So, what did we have to say?
Funding proposals:
We requested urgent publication of the amounts of employer contribution involved, which would then give an indication of how successful any funding system would be. We would urge the Government to bear in mind the findings of the Department for Business Innovation and Skills’ BIS Research paper when deciding these amounts.
We believe that the introduction of the new funding system will have to be carefully managed, with full consideration given to the needs of micro, small and medium sized employers who may not have the capacity to process and administrate apprenticeship funding.
We believe that clarity is needed on whether the Government contribution ‘pot’ will be allocated on a ‘first come first served’ basis. For example will employers late to the application process be less likely to receive funds? This would then influence patterns of, and willingness to, engage with apprenticeship recruitment.
We’d urge the publication of clear guidelines as early as possible which will allow for the transition to be effectively managed. If something is proven not to work, it should not be pursued to the determent of the apprenticeships programme. In the past we feel there have been examples of consultation recommendations that have been omitted, and are keen for this not to be repeated.
On the new ‘Standards’ based model more generally:
The requirement of additional payments for 16 and 17 year olds, we believe, will be a disincentive for employers to take on Apprenticeships in this age group. Until the new Standards in apprenticeship are well established, is there a risk of young people not undertaking an apprenticeship due to uncertainty and unknown factors arising from the implementation?
We feel that the move towards grading for aspects of the new Standards will lead to the sector only favouring ‘distinction’ grade apprentices, potentially devaluing those who’ve achieved ‘only’ a ‘pass’ or ‘merit’ grade.
We think that stretch and aspiration should be contained (and encouraged) within the apprenticeship standard, but should reflect real working practices such as progression through pay scale or increase in responsibilities for apprentices.
Read more on our thoughts about the Future of Apprenticeships in England.
What are your thoughts? We’d love to hear from you!
