Concerns Over Apprenticeship Changes

People 1st has written to Simon Waugh, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, on behalf of 15 large employers, over concerns about the introduction of functional skills in apprenticeships.

In September, functional skills – practical skills in English and mathematics, which will be assessed through a three hour exam - will be introduced to apprenticeships in England. These will replace the current key skills – communication and application of numbers.

These are currently assessed through a portfolio of work and a formal test, and can be assessed online with the learner receiving feedback on areas in which they could improve.

Both People 1st and employers are concerned by:

• the lack of context in the assessment of functional skills which could be seen as a barrier for some apprentices.
• the difficulties of implementing the three hour exam, especially for employers who map their own in-house training across to the apprenticeship. Some believe that the turnaround time to obtain results could disengage learners.
• the fact that awarding organisations offering the apprenticeships are not currently offering the full range of functional skills at all levels, which could result in added bureaucracy.
• the lack of detail over the introduction of on-demand and online assessment.

With these concerns in mind, People 1st has requested that the introduction of functional skills is postponed.

Without a significant re-think, there is a danger that some sector employers may stop offering the apprenticeship.

For more information, contact preetkiran.sumal@people1st.co.uk