Weekly Newsletter 14.11.2024

DATA SKILLS FOR ALL

Unlocking the Power of Data Analysis for Everyone

Data analysis is no longer just for scientists or tech experts—it's a crucial skill across industries, helping professionals make informed decisions and improve productivity. With accessible tools like Excel, Power BI, and Tableau, anyone can learn the basics without needing advanced degrees or coding skills.

Real-World Applications

• Marketing & Sales: Use data to understand customer behaviour.

• Education: Teachers analyse data to improve learning outcomes.

• Healthcare: Data helps improve patient care and optimise operations.

Overcoming Challenges

Start small, focus on understanding data context, and use tools relevant to your field. With practice, you'll gain the confidence to tackle more complex tasks.

Accelerate People Can Help

At Accelerate People, the rigorous process of end-point assessment is made smooth and seamless with the help of AI augmented platform support so the apprentices can focus on demonstrating their skills and confidence, ensuring they meet industry standards with detailed grading analysis and reports for them to work towards a successful career as a data analyst or any other.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Conservatory Outlet Thrives with Apprenticeship Investment and Growth

Conservatory Outlet, a Wakefield-based fabricator, is experiencing a significant boost in its workforce development following a £250,000 investment in apprenticeships. Nearly 25% of its 180 employees have progressed through the company's apprenticeship programme, with many advancing to managerial roles. This initiative has contributed to a 25% increase in sales and manufacturing output, marking one of the company's most productive years. The firm is now expanding its commitment by creating five new apprenticeship positions and exploring degree-level courses for its staff.

Karen Starkey, Head of HR, emphasises the importance of nurturing talent internally, noting that the company has successfully attracted and retained 42 apprentices across various roles since 2019. The tailored apprenticeship programme includes one-to-one mentoring and regular progress reviews, fostering a sense of belonging among participants. Joe Davis, a notable success story, joined as a Maintenance Apprentice and is now pursuing an HNC in Engineering, supported by the company.

Conservatory Outlet's dedication to employee development is further highlighted by its finalist status in the Yorkshire HR Awards. The company aims to formalise a Manufacturing Degree Apprenticeship, reinforcing its commitment to long-term employee growth and industry excellence. This strategic focus on internal talent development positions Conservatory Outlet as a leader in workforce innovation and productivity.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Funding Challenges for Apprentices with Learning Needs

Providers are hesitant to access government funding for apprentices with additional learning needs due to complex rules and fear of clawbacks, risking increased dropout rates and costs. The Additional Learning Support (ALS) fund, offering £150 monthly, is underutilised, with only 20% of providers claiming it. Recent rule changes aim to ease access, but challenges persist. Providers must prove monetary costs for adjustments, a task complicated by unclear evidence requirements and past audit issues. Despite increased government emphasis on widening apprenticeship access, many providers offer support for free, fearing financial repercussions.

The percentage of apprentices with confirmed learning difficulties rose from 11.8% to 15.6% between 2020-21 and 2023-24, with the true figure likely higher. Technology has helped identify learners needing support, yet many needs remain unaddressed. The government has reduced the frequency of required learning support reviews and allowed apprentices with learning difficulties to work towards lower-level functional skills, addressing a key dropout factor. However, funding for costs exceeding £150 monthly remains complex, with providers wary of audit concerns.

Despite these challenges, awareness of neurodiversity is growing, with more employers incorporating support into training programmes. Providers like Hays Travel are proactive, using assessments to identify and support apprentices' needs. While improvements are evident, further efforts are needed to ensure equitable support for all apprentices.

EDUCATION NEWS

Multiverse Awards First Degrees as UK Apprenticeship Provider

Multiverse has become the UK’s first independent apprenticeship provider to award undergraduate degrees. Its inaugural cohort graduated with a BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions, working with several renowned companies including Capita and Mars UK.

The Advanced Data Fellowship program boasts an 89.5% satisfaction rate, with over 50% of apprentices gaining promotions and avoiding university fees. Multiverse continues to champion social mobility, with 30% of participants from disadvantaged backgrounds, delivering real-world business impact while advancing careers.

EDUCATION POLICY

Level 7 Apprenticeships Face Funding Cuts to Prioritise Lower Levels

The skills minister, Jacqui Smith, has indicated a widespread removal of level 7 apprenticeships from levy funding, aiming to redirect resources towards lower-level training. This decision, announced at the Association of Employment and Learning Providers conference, aligns with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's plans to address the Department for Education's budget constraints. Smith emphasised the need for employers to invest more in skills development, beyond relying on levy-funded training. Level 7 apprenticeships, particularly in accountancy, taxation, and senior leadership, are at risk, potentially impacting sectors like the NHS and civil service. While some leaders support the move to eliminate "deadweight costs", others express concern over the potential negative effects on public services.

Smith assured that the Department for Education and Skills England will engage with stakeholders to assess which areas might remain funded, though she suggested that few standards will be spared. The AELP proposed that the funding gap could be addressed by reallocating the £800 million surplus from the apprenticeship levy. Meanwhile, Skills England, Labour's new skills body, is being established within the DfE, with an independent board to guide its operations. Smith reassured that Skills England will maintain independence and effectively influence government policy, despite concerns about its integration within the DfE. The organisation aims to unify and enhance the fragmented training system, driving positive change in skills development.