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The Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023

Overview

The Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 marks a significant milestone in the realm of apprenticeships in Wales. This order brings about crucial amendments to the Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales (SASW), shaping a more inclusive and accessible landscape for apprenticeship frameworks. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of the modification, shedding light on its implications for businesses and the diverse types of organisations it impacts.

The Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 is enacted under the authority of the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009. The primary objective is to enhance the accessibility, inclusivity, and relevance of recognized Welsh apprenticeship frameworks. The modifications are designed to address the unique needs of individuals with learning difficulties or disabilities, ensuring that apprenticeship opportunities are accessible to a wider demographic.

The key requirements of the Order include:

  • Foundation Apprenticeship Frameworks: The order introduces specifications for proxy qualifications for Essential Skills in English and Maths. Additionally, it recognises equivalent qualifications for Essential Communication Skills and Essential Application of Number Skills. Notably, the modifications allow adjustments for apprentices with learning difficulties or disabilities, fostering a more accommodating and diverse apprenticeship environment.
  • Digital Literacy Skills: A noteworthy addition is the inclusion of Essential Digital Literacy Skills as a requirement for foundation apprenticeships. However, exceptions are permitted for individuals with learning difficulties or disabilities, emphasizing a balanced and tailored approach to skill development.
  • Higher Apprenticeship Frameworks: For Higher Apprenticeship Frameworks at Levels 4 and 5, the order specifies occupational competencies and technical knowledge qualifications. Essential Skills requirements are exempt, and on-the-job and off-the-job training follow the structure of foundation apprenticeships.
  • Degree or Professional Apprenticeships: Degree or Professional Apprenticeships at Level 6 and 7 undergo significant clarification. The order mandates the identification of occupational competencies and technical knowledge qualifications. Essential Skills are not required, and the framework delineates on-the-job and off-the-job training requirements.

This Order came into force on the 11th of December 2023 and applies to Wales.

apprenticeships order

Does the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 affect my business?

Businesses in Wales offering apprenticeship programs will be directly impacted by the modifications introduced in the order. The key tasks for affected businesses include:

  • Reviewing Apprenticeship Frameworks: Businesses need to thoroughly review their existing apprenticeship frameworks to ensure alignment with the modified standards. This involves assessing Essential Skills requirements, recognizing equivalent qualifications, and accommodating adjustments for individuals with learning difficulties or disabilities.
  • Updating Training Programs: Adapting training programs to integrate Essential Digital Literacy Skills for foundation apprenticeships is a crucial task. This ensures that apprentices are equipped with the necessary digital skills essential for today’s workplace.
  • Considering Proxy Qualifications: Businesses must recognise and consider the listed proxy qualifications when evaluating apprentice qualifications. This step is particularly important when assessing Essential Skills in English and Maths.
  • Adapting Higher and Degree/Professional Apprenticeships: For businesses offering Higher and Degree/Professional Apprenticeships, identifying and incorporating the specified occupational competencies and technical knowledge qualifications is imperative. This ensures that apprenticeships at these levels meet the updated standards.
  • Accommodating Learning Difficulties or Disabilities: Implementing procedures to accommodate apprentices with learning difficulties or disabilities is crucial. This involves making necessary adjustments to Essential Skills requirements based on individual circumstances and assessments.
  • Staying Informed: Regularly checking for updates or additional guidance from relevant authorities is essential. Staying informed ensures that businesses remain compliant with apprenticeship standards and can adapt to any future modifications.

Businesses are encouraged to embrace these changes, recognising the diverse needs of apprentices and fostering an environment where learning is accessible to all. By staying informed, adapting frameworks, and accommodating individual circumstances, businesses can contribute to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce in Wales.

Do I need the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 in my ISO Compliance Register?

You will need the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 in my ISO Compliance Register if your business is included below:

  • Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities offering apprenticeship programs will need to align their frameworks with the modified standards.
  • Employers and Industry: Businesses across various industries employing apprentices will be directly affected, requiring adjustments to their apprenticeship frameworks to comply with the new standards.
  • Training Providers: Organisations providing training services for apprenticeships must update their programs to meet the modified requirements and ensure their apprentices are well-prepared for the evolving workplace.
  • Professional Bodies: Professional bodies associated with Higher and Degree/Professional Apprenticeships will play a crucial role in recognising relevant technical knowledge qualifications and ensuring alignment with industry standards.
  • Government Agencies: Government agencies overseeing apprenticeship programs and standards will need to communicate the modifications effectively and provide guidance to businesses for seamless implementation.

Legislation related to the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023

Legislation related to the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 include:

  • The Apprenticeships (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 2017
  • Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009

More information

Visit the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.

Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article (which are updated by the Apprenticeships (Specification of Apprenticeship Standards for Wales) (Modification) Order 2023) to your Register.