Apprenticeships

English apprenticeships today are based on Standards, developed by employer groups. These Standards are replacing the SASE frameworks, which are being phased out. The Standards are also known as ‘Trailblazer Apprenticeships’

What’s different about the Trailblazer Apprenticeships?

Developed by employers for employers 

Nobody knows which skills, knowledge and behaviours are needed in a job better than the employer. Food industry employers need apprenticeship training that delivers ‘work ready’ employees. Apprenticeship standards are designed to do just that!

Government funding for apprenticeships is being put in the hands of employers

This means employers now have the freedom to choose their own apprenticeship training providers and end-point assessment organisations. What’s more, they also have the flexibility to negotiate apprenticeship training costs and details with a provider or even deliver their own food training.

Apprentices will need to prove their skills at end-point assessment

Trailblazer Apprenticeships have raised the bar on the standards of food skills training. The apprenticeships are challenging and require apprentices to undertake a series of tests, called end-point assessment, or EPA, at the end of their apprenticeship. End-point assessment is one of the biggest changes in apprenticeships. Succeeding at EPA gives both apprentice and employer confidence in their abilities.

Different levels of apprenticeships to suit different business needs

Apprenticeships provide more than simply basic training in an occupation. There are now higher level apprenticeships, meaning that businesses can take on apprentices from intermediate level (level 2) right up to a degree level (level 6-7) depending on the nature of the skills required. Also apprenticeships are now graded, which motivates apprentices to work hard and reach for the top grades.