Developing an apprenticeship framework
Developing an apprenticeship framework
Implicit in developing an apprenticeship framework is the responsibility to provide learners with a product which is of high quality and meets qualification regulations. Outlined below are some key steps to follow and elements to consider when developing a new framework.
- Early dialogue with the FSP and submitting an expression of interest (EOI)
Developing organisations need to submit an early dialogue form to the FSP ten working days before submitting an EOI to the AFO. We will respond to the early dialogue form, enabling developing organisations to then submit an EOI on the AFO. Once an EOI has been accepted by the FSP, the AFO will automatically generate a password for developing organisations enabling them to progress to develop the framework.
- Understand the SASE and SASW
Read the SASE and SASW to ensure that there is a comprehensive understanding of the statutory requirements of the components of an apprenticeship framework.
- Questions to consider
- What skill needs / deficiencies will the apprenticeship address?
- What demand is there from learners or employers?
- What existing apprenticeship frameworks may address the skill gaps?
New apprenticeships must not include a competence qualification that is used in other frameworks. View the FSP apprenticeship frameworks. When this is the case, it could be possible to develop a new pathway in an existing framework. Please contact the FSP to discuss.
- Follow the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils Guide
The Alliance of Sector Skills Councils and UK Commission for Employment and Skills have produced a guide for both England and Wales for organisations who wish to develop an apprenticeship framework. We strongly recommended this guide is consulted.
- Develop a quality assurance (QA) process
Before issuing an apprenticeship, the FSP will expect to see evidence that the developing organisation has followed a robust QA process. This could include:
- Completion of internal proof reading
- Confirmation of compliance with the SASE / SASW
- An internal review, by someone other than the developer
- An external independent peer review
- Confirmation that the apprenticeship will meet a skills gap
- Verification of learner demand
- Results of a mystery shopper activity
- Gather evidence for the IA process
As an IA, the FSP will require a range of documents as evidence. This will support the decision making process regarding issuing a framework.
- Submitting the framework to the IA via the AFO
At this point, the FSP will review the submission and the IA process will begin.
- Response from the FSP
- If the framework is not issued by the FSP, developing organisations will be required to undertake further work to satisfy the IA guidelines. The framework will then need to be resubmitted.
- If the framework is issued by the FSP, an alert will automatically be sent to the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and Department for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills (DCELLS) via the AFO to inform them that a new framework is available for consideration for funding.
- Future involvement with the IA
The IA responsibility is not restricted to just issuing a framework. The FSP is responsible for removing frameworks from the AFO should it become apparent that they are no longer compliant with the IA guidelines. We encourage framework developers to keep an open dialogue with the FSP once a framework is issued, as this enables any concerns or queries to be addressed.
Contact
Jenny Barber
Head of Education and Careers
E: [email protected]
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