Update: issue 342 (18 January 2017)
Updated 25 January 2017
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2017
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sfa-update-january-2017/update-issue-342-18-january-2017
1. Adult education budget: independent training provider contracts
Action
We have written to all existing independent training providers (ITPs) about the changes in public contract regulations which affect their contracts to deliver the adult education budget (AEB).
The changes mean we cannot automatically renew all contracts at the end of the current contracting term. Next week, we will launch a competitive procurement exercise using the funding released from these contracts ending. The procurement will be open to all eligible organisations on the Register of Training Organisations.
We will write to existing AEB ITPs again next week about these arrangements and our plans for 2017 to 2018.
2. Use ‘Find an apprenticeship’ to advertise new apprenticeship vacancies
Action
We would like to remind providers delivering apprenticeships that they must advertise new apprenticeship vacancies on Find an apprenticeship (except where they are an existing employee). This requirement is stated in the apprenticeship common funding and performance management rules for 2016 to 2017.
The ‘Find an apprenticeship’ service is promoted through the Get In Go Far campaign as the place to find and apply for apprenticeships. It is important that you advertise your vacancies so that people can access all the opportunities available to them.
You can upload your apprenticeship vacancies through the ‘Recruit an apprentice’ digital service.
3. The new apprenticeship service
Information
In line with the apprenticeship levy starting in April, we are developing the new apprenticeship service, through which employers can plan, manage and pay for their apprenticeships online.
We are inviting some employers to set up their account on the service over coming weeks. We will be doing this in a phased way so that we can continue testing and improving the service, before we invite all levy-paying employers to register in February 2017.
4. Industry professionals to lead technical education panels
Information
The Department for Education is seeking experienced industry professionals to help shape the future technical education system in England.
This is an opportunity for practising industry professionals or representatives of an industry through a recognised professional body or trade association. The DfE is looking for:
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panel members to develop the standards for specific technical occupations by determining the key skills, knowledge and behaviours that individuals should meet
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panel chairs to lead the overall panel for a technical route and facilitate the active participation of all panel members
More information is available on GOV.UK. The closing date for applications is 13 February 2017.
5. New apprentices welcome letter from Robert Halfon MP
Information
The letter from the Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Robert Halfon to new apprentices is now available on GOV.UK.
We have already sent the letter to all providers, to personalise as part of each new apprentice’s induction pack.
In the letter, the minister emphasises the benefits of apprenticeships and gives new apprentices the added confidence that they have made a great career choice.