Doug Richard has set out a comprehensive vision for the future of apprenticeships in his independent report, ‘The Richard Review of Apprenticeships’ which calls on the Government to improve the quality of the programme and make them more focused on the needs of employers.
Key themes and recommendations include:
• Redefining apprenticeships ?Apprenticeships should be targeted only at those who are new to a job or role that requires sustained and substantial training.
• Focusing with greater rigour on the outcome of an apprenticeship – ?what the apprentice can do when they complete their training – and freeing up the process by which they get there. Trusted, independent assessment is key.
• Recognised industry standards should form the basis of every apprenticeship. ?Employers and other organisations with relevant industry expertise should be invited to design and develop new apprenticeship qualifications for their sectors.
• All apprentices should reach a good level in English and maths before they can complete their apprenticeship.
• Government funding must create the right incentives for apprenticeship training. ?The purchasing power for investing in apprenticeship training should lie with the employer.
• Far greater diversity and innovation in training should be encouraged – ?with employers and government taking a more active role in safeguarding quality.
For the summary of his report see: LINK
