Monday 11 November 2013
It’s been another month of change and challenge as the Government publishes its Apprenticeship implementation plan, ‘The Future of Apprenticeships in England’. The plan is a result of the Holt and Richard Review of Apprenticeships, which took place last year and will give employers a stronger power in the design and delivery of Apprenticeships.
All Apprenticeships that fall under the current framework will be replaced with new qualifications written by employers and other professional bodies. The new qualifications will have a minimum duration of 12 months, with no exceptions.
Requirements for the English and Maths elements ‘will be stepped up gradually’ as the Government continues to emphasise the importance of basic Maths and English skills. It is hoped that the changes will simplify the Apprenticeship system, as the grading changes to 'pass', 'merit' and 'distinction and thorough independent assessment.
Alongside this, a National Apprenticeship Council will be implemented and "run by young people with elected representatives to spread peer to peer messages". The funding for Apprenticeships will also be changing, and the details are likely to be announced later this year.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on the plan and you can make your voice heard on the NCFE Blog.
In addition to the Apprenticeship proposals, this month also saw the publishing of the ‘Whitehead Review of Vocational Qualifications’. The review looks at how we can ensure that vocational qualifications are valued as worthwhile investments, enabling individuals to progress in their careers and employers to grow their businesses and improve their competitiveness.
As with the ‘Future of Apprenticeships,’ there is an emphasis on employer involvement; it’s been suggested that awarding organisations and training providers should actively engage with employers in relevant sectors when developing and delivering vocational qualifications.
At NCFE, we welcome both reports which demonstrate the significance of vocational qualifications on the Government agenda. Employer insight is crucial in ensuring that vocational training meets the skills needs of the current labour market. As an awarding organisation, we work closely with employers to make sure that the qualifications that we develop are fit for purpose and relevant to today’s industry.
For more information on NCFE Apprenticeships, check out our dedicated Apprenticeships page, or give us a call on 0191 239 8000.
Best wishes
David Grailey
NCFE Chief Executive