Countdown Issue 1007

Finally the FE white paper appeared this week. The hopes of some that it would be ‘revolutionary’ had long dissipated after the autumn spending review became a one-year settlement, but it was still an interesting read even if a significant amount was a retread of previous announcements. AskAshworth has a summary of the key elements and the AELP response is here: Outcome focused approach in FE white paper welcomed by training providers (aelp.org.uk). On a personal note, I am very pleased to

Outcome focused approach in FE white paper welcomed by training providers

AELP welcomes the Skills for Jobs white paper with its outcome focused approach and emphasis on working closely with employers. We are also pleased that the role of independent training providers is recognised, not just in delivering apprenticeships but also in adult education and other forms of training.

Light at the end of the tunnel for thousands of held-up apprentices in exams controversy

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers sees the publication of the DfE/Ofqual consultation on awarding qualifications in 2021 as a distinct ray of light at the end of a long dark tunnel for over 40,000 apprentices and other vocational learners who have been unable to take their maths and English tests due to covid restrictions and whose career progress has been held up by lack of government action over recent months.

A Day with Ofsted - Recordings are now available for purchase

The absence of full Ofsted inspections since mid-March 2020 does not detract from the importance of this year’s annual report from the Chief Inspector nor the need for the providers to be fully prepared for inspection related activity when the Covid-related restrictions end. The recordings and slides from this event are now available for purchase. Sponsored by The Skills Network

Learning Support Special Interest Group

Our Learning Support SIG will be coming together, with Louise Karwowski of Cognassist chairing the meeting. This is supported by Paul Warner, AELP Director of research and development and managed by Giorgio Buttironi AELP Policy Officer.

Embedding digital learning as a key delivery strategy to futureproof your business - sponsored by TSN

It’s looking like heading back to 'in person learning' is not a sustainable option for the near future, but there is another way! We need to get passed the ‘good enough’ mindset to make sure we future proof our business and add value to our learners and employers. This half day interactive virtual workshop will take providers on the journey to understand what they have now, what is best practice, and how that gap can be filled. Please register with a business email address for your free place.