May 2015 work-based learning and colleges update

Internal assessment rules for BTECs delivered as part of Engineering Advanced Apprenticeships

Changes are afoot with regard to internal assessment for BTECs that are delivered as part of an Apprenticeship programme. We're awaiting confirmation of a relaxation of the BTEC internal assessment guidance rules that will affect BTEC National learners who are studying this qualification as part of an Apprenticeship programme. Clarification of the rules is expected within the next month, so watch this space!

Apprenticeship reform and trailblazers

We're working with the following engineering Trailblazer groups to develop new qualifications and assessments for the revised Apprenticeship Standards which are due to be operational from September 2015. These will not completely replace the existing SASE Apprenticeship Frameworks, but will replace roles within them.

Aerospace and Airworthiness

• Aerospace Manufacturing Fitter
• Aerospace Electrical Fitter
• Machinist
• Aircraft Maintenance Fitter (Fixed and Rotary Wing)
• Maintenance Mechanic (Military)
• Survival Equipment Fitter (Military)
• Airworthiness Planning Quality and Safety Technician
• Aircraft Certifying Engineer
• Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer
• Aerospace Software Developer

Automotive

• Mechatronics Maintenance Technician
• Product Design and Development Technician
• Tool and Die Maker
• Control/Technical Support Engineer
• Electrical/Electronic Technical Support Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Product Design and Development Engineer

Automotive Retail

• Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Service Technician (Light Vehicle)
• Auto Industry Customer Service Advisor
• Vehicle Sales Advisor
• Vehicle Parts Operator

For more information on these occupations or the Apprenticeship reforms and Trailblazers in general, please contact us.

Claiming Apprenticeship Certificates through ACE

We've been informed by SEMTA that some centres are using screen prints from Edexcel Online and uploading these to ACE as a replacement for certificates. Please be aware that the information contained within this document is not always consistent with the requirements for ACE. This information does not contain the QAN, which is required by ACE to confirm qualification details.

While this information can still be used to claim Apprenticeship certificates, FISSS/ACE/SEMTA may require you to provide additional information to support the claim (that is, a certificate or proof of QAN).

If you have any queries about this, please contact us.

19+ funding retention

As part of the new rules for awarding organisations, we're required to provide at least 5 letters from employers highlighting their support for qualifications to retain funding as stand-alone provision for learners aged over 19. This will not affect qualifications' Apprenticeship funding, which will remain.

Within the engineering sector, we're seeking support from employers for the following qualifications in order to retain funding for 2015/16.

If you feel you can support us with this, please contact us.