Apprenticeship reform: balance speed with quality

Last week, several changes to end-point assessment were announced.  

One of these related to the removal of Gateway requirements for Functional Skills achievement. Literacy and numeracy skills are key in building any successful career, which is why they have a place in every apprenticeship.  

Creating a system in which English and maths skills are developed and assessed appropriately, without presenting unnecessary barriers, is vital. We welcome and support any actions that help achieve this.  

The intention behind introducing EPA principles is one that we support: we agree that speed and flexibility are important for the government’s growth agenda.  

Quality and rigour are equally important and balancing these priorities must be the focus of any change initiatives. 

We will continue to work with the Department, Federation of Awarding Bodies, Ofqual and other stakeholder groups to understand the detail behind these policy changes, and ensure that our apprenticeship offer remains a relevant and rigorous confirmation of an apprentice’s skills and knowledge.   

Andrew Walker
Managing Director at Training Qualifications UK