LACK OF CONFIDENCE BIG FACTOR IN SUCCESSFUL APPRENTICESHIP DELIVERY, NEW SURVEY REVEALS

NEW research, “The Learning and Skills Confidence Index Survey” indicates that front-line FE staff lack confidence in their organisation’s ability to successfully deliver future apprenticeships, says quality assurance specialists, Mesma.

The company was commenting on a survey undertaken by consultancy partner Strategic Development Network to gauge sector confidence in the wake of the general election.

The survey, which revealed FE colleges are slightly more optimistic about their future than independent training providers, showed a significant disparity between the level of confidence among front-line staff compared to their senior colleagues.

Reforms to apprenticeships, funding policy and systems, employer engagement and training diversification, were all cited as factors undermining sector confidence.

These reflected recent instabilities about apprenticeship funding policy, perceived inconsistencies between apprenticeship standards and assessment plans, and a lack of clarity surrounding area reviews and devolution.

Louise Doyle, Mesma director, said: “Our sector continues to face significant reforms, reviews and restructuring. The survey shows clearly that front-line staff feel out of the picture over their organisation’s readiness to deliver apprenticeships in future.

“While it takes time for sector reforms to bed-in, it’s really important that apprenticeship providers take a whole-organisational approach in their preparations to deliver apprenticeships in the new world.”

Louise Doyle added that technologies such as the Reform tool, developed by Mesma and SDN, can support and help senior and mid-level managers make the transition to apprenticeship standards by working with all teams and all staff.

“The confidence, engagement and effective delivery of their staff depend upon it,” she said.