November 2022
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This conference focused on the next steps for degree apprenticeships in England.
Delegates discussed the new arrangements from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and the new Designated Quality Body in England (DBQ) for delivering apprenticeships of the highest standard and for quality assurance in apprenticeship assessment.
It was an opportunity to look at the future for External Quality Assurance (EQA) and End-Point Assessment (EPA), as Ofqual consults on proposed updates to their EPA Level Guidance, with discussion expected on how to provide clarity within regulation and how this applies to EPAs.
Delegates also considered strategies for boosting the uptake of degree apprenticeships, including how to enhance the degree apprenticeship brand and how universities can expand their curriculum offer.
Overall, areas of discussion included:
- development opportunities: enhancing degree apprenticeships brand - identifying new disciplines and developing courses - increasing uptake and supporting students
- assessment: the new EQA method - developing fair, consistent and robust EPAs
- accessibility: improving application processes and support for students
- diversity and inclusion: growing awareness and uptake amongst under-represented and disadvantaged groups - the role of degree apprenticeships in supporting social mobility
- economic contribution: addressing skills gaps in the labour market - improving local partnerships - supporting workforce recruitment and retention - meeting the needs of employers
We are pleased to have been able to include keynote sessions with Lindsay Conroy, Apprenticeship Programme Lead, UCAS; Robert Nitsch, Chief Operating Officer, Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education; Rob Stroud, Director of Quality Assessment, Quality Assurance Agency; and Richard Bloxam, Director of Strategy, Federation for Industry Sector Skills and Standards.
The conference was an opportunity to consider the issues alongside key policy officials who attended from the Cabinet Office; DIT; Department for the Economy, NI; Social Mobility Commission; and the VOA.
