ESFA funding rule changes coming into force next academic year have created a landmark opportunity for improvement, putting additional learner support (ALS) at the forefront of every apprenticeship provider’s agenda.
Their potential impact is huge. Far more than just another set of regulations, they are an acknowledgement of the crucial role of learning support and a vital step towards personalised learning.
The new rules mandate cognitive and learning assessments for apprentices, quarterly reviews instead of monthly assessments, and the ability to screen apprentices at any stage.
Additionally, they introduce exemptions for English and maths thresholds based on clinically sound cognitive assessments, acknowledging the diverse challenges learners encounter with special educational needs. Compliance is essential not only for meeting standards but also for securing the necessary funding to offer critical specialist support.
Yet too many colleges and providers are not currently adopting appropriate solutions, perhaps in part because of confined budgets. So how can they now ensure compliance?
Learning technology holds the key
Reliable learning technology can ensure compliance with Ofsted requirements and aid tutors in providing essential support and evidence to unlock ALS funding.
Screening technology can help identify learners with additional needs and track and monitor their progress. Personalised learning strategies also mean learners can access intuitive and accessible resources that meet their individual needs and course curriculum.
Many providers can already attest that learning technology drives engagement, increases attainment and supports learners from end to end, resulting in increased retention.
Facing the challenge
Many more recognise the urgent need to meet the challenge but feel they don’t have the budget to roll out new technologies. The reverse is true.
In the majority of cases, this isn’t an additional cost but a way of creating savings while innovating. It can even help providers identify new revenue opportunities if they can break with their normal processes and implement learning technologies where they haven’t before.
There will of course be occasions when staff push back, but the sector really does require a shift if it is to continue giving learners the best chance of success in their learning and beyond, not least those with additional needs.
We have found that around 35 per cent of all screened learners qualify for additional learning support. Without the power of learning technology, we would never have identified them all. This ensures every learner gets the support they need and providers save a shed load of paperwork and costs, allowing staff to focus on supporting learners.
The proof is in the pudding
One large apprenticeship provider in the Midlands was struggling to identify learners with additional needs, track and monitor their progress and find a mechanism to help fund the support they needed. Investing in learning technology and implementing a robust screening tool changed that.
They saw strong initial results and went on to fully embed the platform in their learner journey and learner support process. Every new learner now takes the assessment during their induction, and a comprehensive training program supports them to better understand how they learn and how to access support available.
More than that, learners now also have access to personalised resources that meet their individual needs and course curriculum.
The college has assessed over 1,600 learners to date and currently boasts a 93 per cent engagement rate.
There’s a lesson to be learnt for all
So it is not a question of budget; the ROI is clear. Effective screening tools and training can ensure all students have access to the support they need to excel.
The new ESFA funding rules coming into effect in August 2024 mean providers will be able to screen their learners at any part of their apprenticeship, not just at the start. This means providers will be able to access support for every apprentice, no matter what stage of their journey they are at.
The sector now has an opportunity to create a brighter and more inclusive future for apprenticeship education. Learning technology has a crucial role to play, and we must prepare now.
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