Aptem’s Post

This morning we have published the findings from our Mini Commission on Functional Skills Qualifications. The findings are astonishing - only 1 in 4 apprenticeship vacancies are now open to those without prior English and maths qualifications. Well intentioned, but flawed, apprenticeship rules are resulting in potential learners missing out on vital English and maths support. We believe functional skills should be removed as an exit requirement for apprenticeships. Read the full report here: https://buff.ly/4gq5eQR

Could not agree more! I believe the apprenticeship standards should be redesigned to include industry-specific maths, English, and digital skills. This approach would allow learners to develop and evidence vocationally relevant knowledge and skills, rather than being measured through standardised tests that they may have struggled with in previous education. By integrating these elements into the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs), apprentices could demonstrate their proficiency through practical application in their industry.

Are people missing ICT as part of the apprenticeships? It used to be in addition to the FS Maths and English for some routes. Or are people adding this to study time during OTJ?  How are people filling the skills gap?

Today's 'Facts Friday' is about what students have told us about their intent to do after exams at 16 or 18. How many are keen to continue their education? Are apprenticeships becoming a more popular option? Is a gap year on the 'to do' list before university? If you have a minute to spare, watch the short video. Over 5000 responses from 14-18 year olds have been included. #CareersEducation #PSHE #StudentVoice

❓ WHAT IS A T-LEVEL? ❓ EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS T Levels are an alternative to A levels, apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 courses. Equivalent to 3 A levels, T-Levels focus on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study, or apprenticeships. A 45-DAY INDUSTRY PLACEMENT Each T-Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry. 80% CLASSROOM, 20% WORK T-Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action See what T-levels you can study at CWA here: https://lnkd.in/eVQmKFA

❓ WHAT IS A T-LEVEL? ❓ EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS T Levels are an alternative to A levels, apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 courses. Equivalent to 3 A levels, T-Levels focus on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study, or apprenticeships. A 45-DAY INDUSTRY PLACEMENT Each T-Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry. 80% CLASSROOM, 20% WORK T-Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action See what T-levels you can study at CWA here: https://lnkd.in/eVQmKFA

WHAT IS A T-LEVEL? EQUIVALENT TO 3 A LEVELS T Levels are an alternative to A levels, apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 courses. Equivalent to 3 A levels, T-Levels focus on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study, or apprenticeships. A 45-DAY INDUSTRY PLACEMENT Each T-Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry. 80% CLASSROOM, 20% WORK T-Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action. Watch this video to find out more about T Levels: https://lnkd.in/e5m8SpvT

5 things I hate... 1. The lack of transparency from the education system regarding apprenticeships and the fact that university is not for everyone. For most traditional roles out there there is an equivalent apprenticeship available with valuable experience minus the debt. 2. This idea that as young people you'll miss out on the fun your uni friends are having when the reality is you can still have that fun but with more balance and money in your pocket. So you don't have to penny pinch when letting your hair down because you earn while you learn. 3. This focus on the level of qualifications you receive in apprenticeships rather than the experience, transferable skills and career pathways open to you. 4. Uninformed parents misinforming their children with conviction based on their own fears and fundamental lack of understanding of where the world is headed. 5. London traffic. Have a great weekend all ✨️

Higher Education — The evolving #HigherEducation apprenticeships have the potential to significantly enhance the linkage between academic learning and practical, workplace-based skills and should be accessible to students with independent providers. Read at: https://lnkd.in/gMntxSmT