Seven ways IfATE is streamlining apprenticeships

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) has taken significant strides to enhance the apprenticeship landscape in the UK. Through a series of innovative measures, it’s aiming to ease the burden on employers and ensure that apprenticeships remain relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

Streamlining the process

Recognising the crucial role that small businesses play in the economy, IfATE is simplifying the onboarding journey for them. Effective from 17th July, the number of steps required to register an account on the Apprenticeships Service has been reduced from 9 to 6. This streamlined process empowers small businesses to focus on their primary objectives – recruiting and training apprentices efficiently. By cutting through administrative complexities, IfATE enables businesses to engage with apprenticeships seamlessly.

Reducing admin

IfATE is placing trust in expert providers, granting them the authority to handle more administrative tasks on behalf of employers. These providers can leverage their 'expert' status as a marketing tool, signifying a mark of excellence. The pilot of this approach, starting in autumn 2023, seeks to enhance administrative efficiency and improve employer-provider partnerships. Gradual implementation from August 2024 will enable more employers to benefit from this facilitative measure.

Data-sharing

Understanding the administrative hurdles that employers face when gathering evidence for apprenticeship eligibility, IfATE is taking steps to reduce these burdens. By utilising their data-sharing agreement with HMRC, IfATE will minimise evidence requirements, such as proof of legal employment for apprentices, beginning from August 2024. This initiative aims to streamline the process and promote greater employer participation in apprenticeship schemes.

Immediate starts

To expedite apprenticeship commencement and eliminate paperwork delays, IfATE is enabling small employers to start their apprentices immediately upon registration for funding. Moreover, employers can even backdate apprenticeships by one month, ensuring that the apprentice's training can commence promptly. This initiative, effective from September 2023, encourages a more agile and responsive apprenticeship system, benefiting both employers and apprentices.

Adapting  skills

In a rapidly changing world, staying up-to-date with technological advancements and evolving technical skills is crucial. To ensure apprenticeships remain aligned with employer needs, IfATE will review the content of 100 of the most-utilised standards. By the end of December 2023, these reviews will be completed, providing apprentices with relevant, future-proof skills that meet industry demands.

Consolidation

IfATE's commitment to enhancing accessibility is reflected in the launch of a new 'single digital starting point' for the skills system in autumn 2023. This consolidated platform will present all available skills offers in one place, simplifying the search for suitable learning or apprenticeship opportunities. Additionally, a pilot service by UCAS, starting from November 2023, will match talent with employer vacancies, providing enhanced support for apprenticeship applications from February 2024. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between learners and employers, fostering a more dynamic skills ecosystem.

Promotion

IfATE's vision for promoting apprenticeships and skills includes equipping work coaches at Jobcentre Plus with the necessary knowledge and information. By doing so, they can refer customers to local apprenticeship and training opportunities. A combination of events, communication, and updated guidance will enhance awareness and understanding, leading to increased uptake of apprenticeships and skill-building programs.

IfATE's initiatives are intended to demonstrate their commitment to improving the apprenticeship landscape in the UK. By simplifying processes, adapting to technological advancements, and enhancing accessibility, IfATE wants to empower employers, learners, and providers alike. As these developments progress, stakeholders should look forward to a more agile, inclusive, and future-focused apprenticeship system that meets the evolving needs of industries and learners alike. The IMI will be closely monitoring this progress and is an active participant within the department.

Hayley Pells is Policy and Public Affairs Lead at the Institute of the Motor Industry