We’ve never been ones to stand still. Since we started back in 2013, we’ve been driven by innovation – pioneering digital assessment in Functional Skills and continually expanding our portfolio of qualifications and end-point assessment standards. 

More than a decade later, that commitment hasn’t changed and after months of hard graft across our teams, we’re proud to share that we’ve been approved to deliver Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs), ready for first teach in September 2026. 

What are AAQs? 

AAQs are Level 3 vocational qualifications that have been created as part of the Department for Education’s (DfE) reform of the post-16 qualifications landscape. They can be taken as standalone qualifications or alongside A Levels as part of a mixed study programme.  

AAQs come in two sizes. Certificates are smaller qualifications that are broadly equivalent to half an A Level, while Extended Certificates are larger qualifications that are broadly equivalent to a full A Level. 

The new qualifications offer focused and practical learning, aid clearer progression through to higher education or employment, and give employers greater assurance that candidates have the knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to succeed in the workplace.  

What are TQUK’s AAQs?  

We’re happy to announce that we’ve been approved for four AAQ Extended Certificates in the following subjects:  

• Sport and Exercise Science 

• IT and Computing 

• Health and Social Care 

• Design, Engineer and Construct in the Digital Built Environment 

TQUK Managing Director Andrew Walker said: “AAQs represent the next step in the TQUK story. We’ve been passionate about adult learning since the very start, but we’ve also wanted to be part of the 16-19 journey too.  

“Our AAQ portfolio takes us into areas we haven’t explored before, like Sport and Exercise Science, whilst continuing our excellent work in vital areas such as health and social care, and the built environment. 

“This is just the beginning – not just of our AAQs, but also the expansion of our product line! Look out for more in the next few months!” 

Katie Orr, Chief Regulatory Officer and Responsible Officer at TQUK, said: “The Department for Education’s post-16 review showed the importance of streamlining the qualifications landscape.  

“AAQs are a vital part of this, offering school leavers clearer pathways to higher education and employment, and employers greater assurance that candidates have the knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to thrive in the workplace.  

“I’m proud of our all our teams, but particularly our Qualifications, Assessment and Quality and Compliance departments, who have worked tirelessly to develop these qualifications.  

“I can’t wait to see them delivered by our training providers from next September!” 

Find out more about our Alternative Academic Qualifications provision on our AAQs page.

To succeed in life, you need more than just qualifications and experience. Soft skills are just as critical in helping people take responsibility, develop their skills and ultimately build happy lives and satisfying careers. 

Abilities like public speaking, winning mentality, portable skills and financial competence are becoming increasingly important. Whether it’s presenting ideas to key stakeholders or managing budgets at home, these keys skills can transform someone's personal life and professional prospects. 

That’s why courses focused on building these skills are essential and can help people open doors to opportunities they may never have thought possible. 

Our partnership with the National Talent Academy 

Personal development has been integral to TQUK from the word go. We're dedicated to internal promotion and have development programmes in place to help staff develop the skills they need to thrive; that's why we’ve partnered with National Talent Academy. Together, we’re empowering learners to become their best selves through the Level 3 Award in Essential Work Skills. 

This Award is endorsed by us and allows individuals to learn portable skills that can be used across a wide range of industries and areas of life, helping them to adapt and thrive in any career. 

Andrew Walker, our Managing Director, said: “It takes more than occupational competence to thrive in the workplace. Confidence, self-awareness and willingness to learn are vital too, but these qualities are often described as 'soft skills' and aren't given the prominence they deserve. 

"National Talent Academy's Level 3 Award in Essential Work Skills puts these qualities front and centre, helping students prepare for life and work with a comprehensive programme of learning that's endorsed by TQUK. 

"NTA's belief in growth and development mirrors our own, and we're thrilled to be embarking with them on what I'm sure will be a long and fruitful partnership." 

The ins and outs of the Award 

National Talent Academy’s Level 3 Award is a Certified Learning Course (CLC) - part of our newly revamped endorsed courses provision. 

What makes this CLC truly impactful is its focus on unlocking the skills that matter most now and in the future.  

Through self-paced study, learners can explore the following four units: 

• Futureproof Career Skills (Portable Skills) 

• Financial Literacy 

• Public Speaking Confidence 

• Winning Mentality 

Together, these areas help learners discover and strengthen their transferable skills, build confidence in financial decision-making, communicate ideas with clarity and impact, and develop a mindset that turns challenges into opportunities.  

Once the Award is successfully completed, learners will have gained all the tools they need to flourish in the next steps they take. 

The Founder of National Talent Academy, David Jaffa, adds: “We’re really passionate about our Level 3 Award, and in Training Qualifications UK we’ve found a partner that not only backs the product but shares our passion.  

“Andrew and his team have been incredibly welcoming to us, and we’ve received great support from across the business, helping us make the product even more robust and get it out to new markets.  

“The Level 3 Award in Essential Work Skills is the best solution for helping learners develop the soft skills they need to thrive in life and at work, and we’re thrilled to be working with TQUK to help it shape even more people’s lives.” 

If you would like to find out more about NTA’s fully funded pilots, you can email hello@nationaltalent.org. 

What a year and a half it’s been! Since launching our Functional Skills qualifications in February 2024 (yes, confetti cannons were absolutely involved), we’ve been on an incredible journey of growth, innovation, and learner success. 

From day one our mission was clear: to deliver high-quality, flexible assessments that give learners a safe space and the confidence to successfully use their problem-solving skills.  

And looking at what we’ve done so far, we couldn’t be prouder. 

Our achievements

The past 18 months have been filled with milestones that reflect the hard work of thousands of learners and the unwavering dedication of the entire TQUK team. 

So, let’s give a drum roll for the numbers!  

We’ve empowered over 6,700 learners to successfully pass their maths qualifications (including paper-based) and over 7,700 learners to successfully pass their English qualifications across all levels (including paper-based). 

These statistics show that in a short space of time we’ve helped over 14,400 individuals move onwards and upwards by developing the qualifications and assessment frameworks to help improve their skills. From writing professional emails to handling personal finances, Functional Skills provide the essential tools people need to grow in their careers, navigate everyday life, and continue their educational journey.  

With our Functional Skills qualifications under their belts, the possibilities from here are endless! 

Chris Tubbrit, our Head of Product Development said: “A huge well done to everyone who played a part in making these successes happen and getting us to where we are today. These outstanding results show the significant impact we’re having on learners’ lives by making Functional Skills more accessible than ever. I look forward to seeing where we go next as we continue to innovate and push boundaries.” 

How we made it happen

One of our biggest game-changers has been our anytime, anywhere assessment option, allowing learners to sit their exams at a time and place that suits them. This means no pesky timeslots, less stress for learners with busy schedules, and the freedom to begin assessments anytime within a two year window. 

This flexible option has made the assessment process that much more simple and streamlined, helping reduce barriers and make Functional Skills qualifications accessible to everyone. 

Our anytime, anywhere assessments are just the tip of the iceberg. Key benefits such as our six day results turnaround and easy-to-navigate exam system have also played an important part in ensuring a smooth and efficient process for both learners and centres. 

These innovations highlight our commitment to providing an assessment experience that’s seamless, supportive and designed with the learner in mind! 

Looking ahead

We’re celebrating the achievements so far but we’re even more excited about what’s ahead. Here’s to more learners, more opportunities, and more success stories in the months (and years!) to come. 

Interested in helping your Functional Skills learners unlock success? Get in touch today to see how we can help you!

Since we started, we've always been driven to make a positive impact on training providers and learners across the country. We're particularly passionate about making a positive impact in our local area, and that's why we're delighted to say that we're the newest members of the Greater Manchester Learning Provider Network (GMLPN). 

Established in 2006, GMLPN is a collaborative network made up of 140 diverse educational providers within the Further Education landscape across Greater Manchester.  

This network shares our vision of widening access to high-quality education for learners of all ages and backgrounds. It also provides a valuable platform to contribute our expertise and help shape the future of education in the region. 

Chloe Ramsden, Partnership Manager at GMLPN, commented: “We're delighted to welcome Training Qualifications UK to the GMLPN network. As a respected awarding organisation and end-point assessment organisation, TQUK shares our commitment to driving continuous growth and shaping the future of education. 

“With a strong track record in delivering high-quality vocational qualifications and assessment services, TQUK brings valuable insight and expertise that will strengthen our collective voice in influencing educational reform. Their learner-first approach and dedication to world-class service align perfectly with our mission to provide bespoke support, unlock opportunity, and empower our members to deliver excellence across the sector.” 

Making an impact in Greater Manchester 

Born and bred in Manchester, we’re an organisation that truly cares about the success of businesses and communities within this area. 

Since our humble beginnings in a two-up-two-down office in the heart of Cadishead, TQUK has rapidly grown since 2013, certifying over 900,000 learners around the globe. Today, we offer over 240 qualifications and deliver end-point assessments across 38 standards. 

Our roots run deep, and whether it’s through Adult Skills Funded (ASF) qualifications, regulated and endorsed qualifications, and end-point assessment (EPA), we’re always using innovative thinking to improve the learner journey and deliver real results.  

What we bring to the table 

Our Managing Director, Andrew Walker, said: “We're in a time of significant change for our industry. Whether it's the forthcoming apprenticeship reforms or the ongoing Curriculum and Assessment Review, the vocational landscape is shifting. 

"Customers have always been at the heart of what we do, and joining the GMLPN helps us work more closely with training providers in the Manchester area so we can understand their thoughts and concerns and help them navigate this changing landscape.” 

As part of our proactive approach to helping customers stay up to date with the ongoing apprenticeship assessment reforms, we’ve introduced a new customer-only page, The Apprenticeship Hive. This page gives customers exclusive access to the latest updates, expert guidance, and webinars, which communicate and break down the upcoming changes into easy-to-understand information. 

Find out more about how you can access the Hive by getting in touch with us at business.development@tquk.org  

Pop the prosecco and cue the confetti because we’ve been nominated as finalists at the Federation of Awarding Bodies’ Qualifications and Assessment Excellence Awards 2025! 

The buzz in the office is electric, and with good reason because we’ve been nominated for not one, not two, not three, but four awards! 

We’re incredibly proud to be finalists in the following categories: 

• End-Point Assessment Organisation of the Year (Large Organisation) 

• Rising Star 

• International Export of Qualifications 

• Team of the Year. 

We’re already counting down the days to the ceremony, which takes place on 27 November at the Doubletree by Hilton in Milton Keynes. 

Our Managing Director, Andrew Walker shared his thoughts on the exciting news: "The FAB Qualifications and Assessment Awards are a chance for everyone in the vocational sector to recognise and celebrate success, so I'm delighted to see us nominated in four categories at this year's event. 

"Being shortlisted for EPAO of the Year underlines how we continuously evolve, innovate, and deliver outstanding service for our customers and apprentices, while the recognition for the ESEA Team in Hong Kong is a brilliant reward for the fantastic work they do in bringing the prestige of the UK education system to the rest of the world. 

"Our people make us who we are, so I'm really pleased that our Project Lead, Jack Smith, is up for Rising Star, and that our People Services Team have got the nod for Team of the Year. Their nominations are a glowing endorsement of the culture of continuous improvement we've built together. 

"Bring on November! We can't wait to celebrate with everyone and hopefully bring a trophy or two home." 

FAB CEO, Rob Nitsch said: "This year we’ve received a record number of entries, but even more encouragingly, entries of huge quality.  This reflects the incredible talent, commitment, innovation and togetherness that characterises our industry." 

When the time comes, black tie pictures will be dropped on social media, so be sure to stay up to date by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Find out all the nominations on the FAB website.  

These days, the “working woman” is starting to see more and more opportunities coming her way.  

Since the early 20th century, the professional world has come on leaps and bounds, with typically male-dominated fields welcoming (albeit, grudgingly at first) women to work alongside their counterparts.  

The marketing sector is a prime example of these changes. How marketing used to be perceived is perfectly represented through the popular TV series, Mad Men, where quick-fire advertising is just another part of the Man’s World. Today, this sector has seen a surge of the “Marketing Girly”, with matcha-fuelled, trend-setting women taking over the Mad Men era and putting discrimination to bed. 

Whilst areas like marketing have come a long way, there are still some sectors, like engineering that have some work to do.  

The pathway to a career in engineering is deeply rooted in gender stereotypes, with STEM subjects typically seen as more of a “male” subject area, in comparison to the “feminine” humanities. These age-old societal views are damaging and can have a domino effect: influencing children at a young age, causing women to have less opportunities made available to them and leading to a lack of female representation within the industry. 

Thankfully solutions are being worked on, and changes are taking place. As part of our mission to make a difference, we work in partnership with Class of Your Own (COYO) to develop and deliver the award-winning Design, Engineer, Construct! Learning programmes. These are available to schools world-wide, helping introduce the built environment to the younger generation, and educate and train the future workforce. 

Acting as an inspiration to all aspiring female engineers is COYO’s Founder and Chief Executive, Alison Watson. Alison’s passion for the construction industry and rise to success is evidenced by the recognition she’s gained over the years, including an honorary fellow and nominated President of the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors - and her MBE for services to education, presented by HM The Queen in the 2018 New Years Honours.  

The empowering journey Alison has been on makes her the perfect role model, showing young women across the world that they can succeed and make a real impact in the built environment. 

To gain an expert’s opinion, we spoke with Alison about gender equality within the construction industry and how our partnership is making engineering more accessible to young women. 

How does COYO create opportunities for young women who might not otherwise consider a future in engineering or construction? 

Across the world, engineering and construction sectors are grappling with a shared and chronic challenge: a shortage of skilled professionals equipped to deliver sustainable, resilient infrastructure for a growing and increasingly urbanised population. 

Despite countless reports, campaigns and corporate pledges, one truth remains consistent: too few girls and young women are entering the pipeline and even fewer are reaching senior technical roles.  

I established Class of Your Own to challenge the status quo. We’ve never waited for the industry to “fix the pipeline” – we just built a new one straight from school through the creation of the Design Engineer Construct! (DEC) learning programme with Training Qualifications UK. 

The DEC learning programme is a fully integrated, project-based curriculum that introduces children as young as 11 years old to the full spectrum of roles across the built environment. The difference is in the approach. DEC is not an activity, a one-off workshop or something you’ll find on a careers fair stand, it’s consistent, meaningful education delivered in the school timetable – and soon will be available to even younger children through the launch of Primary DEC. 

Over the past 16 years, we've created a global model of early, meaningful engagement with the built environment, equipping young people, especially girls, with the skills, confidence and professional context to see themselves as future professionals. What began in British schools is now starting to inspire students in the Middle East, across Asia and to Australia. 

DEC reframes engineering and construction as creative, digital, sustainable and people-focused professions. When young women are invited to design a neonatal unit, plan a community rail hub, or create a net zero home, they see how engineering shapes lives - and how they can lead those changes. Representation matters, but so does relevance. That’s how we reach those who have never seen themselves in STEM. 

Have you seen a shift in attitudes within the industry towards gender equality? 

There has been progress, but not nearly enough. While many companies now acknowledge the importance of diversity, too often it’s still treated as a marketing or social value exercise rather than a structural imperative. Genuine change requires investment in education, long before recruitment. 

Encouragingly, we’ve seen some firms move beyond superficial commitments by actively supporting schools through our Adopt a School scheme. When a company invests time in the classroom – through mentoring, supporting teaching and co-designed learning, they stop being passive observers and become part of the solution. That shift, from outreach to ownership, is where attitudes start to change.  

I’ve always challenged those that say getting into schools is difficult; getting out of our schools is difficult! Once you’re in, you’re there for life. It’s as exciting for the professional as it is for the student and teacher because you see your own impact there and then. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience. 

What message do you think is important for aspiring female engineers to hear? 

You don’t need to ask permission to belong here. You already do. 

Engineering is about solving problems, improving lives and building futures. If you care about the climate crisis, public health, housing justice, digital transformation, you’re already thinking like an engineer. We need your perspective, your leadership and your values; you’re the breath of fresh air this world needs (and given the challenges in air quality around the world, it’s something else you can fix!). 

How have DEC learning programmes inspired the next generation of female engineers? 

By trusting them with real responsibility. We give girls the tools, the context and the confidence to take on challenges that matter to their communities and to the world. The most important thing, however, is that we support their teachers, the unsung ambassadors of our industry, to nurture that talent every day. 

We’ve had young women design for COP summits, pitch to city planners and present to global engineers before they’ve sat their GCSEs. Our alumni now study a range of career pathways where engineering is fundamental. They are architects, civil engineers, construction managers and more.  

These women understand ‘engineering’ as multi-faceted knowledge and skills, and fundamental to their studies – that’s the key principle of DEC; children and young people study through the lens of different professionals to weave together a foundation that provides them with a holistic approach to the built environment. It gives girls an engineering future that is ‘normalised’ from their first day of school.” 

After hearing from Alison, it’s clear that there’s still work to be done before we can see equality within the built environment. But with every female learner our partnership inspires, guides, and shapes, it means that one more step has been taken towards a brighter future. 

At the end of the day, the built environment needs women to thrive. Women and diversity bring different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences into a sector that lives and breathes fresh, innovative ideas. The built environment is building the future and society needs inclusivity to make this possible. 

Interested in how our DEC learning programmes can unlock pathways to success? Find out more here. 

At TQUK, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, flexible qualifications that provide learners with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. As part of this commitment, we’re excited to announce our partnership with Pass.  

Pass is a leading provider of online education and assessment solutions. The Pass offering enables learners to take advantage of free diagnostic assessments, resources such as revision guides, revision cards, and practice papers, and 121 tuition.   

Our own dedication to innovation and forward-thinking technology makes TQUK and Pass perfect partners to improve learners’ education experiences and help promote the continued importance of literacy and numeracy to the nation’s skills portfolio. 

A Learner and technology-focused partnership 

Education is evolving, and learners need a practical, engaging, and accessible way to achieve qualifications to help improve outcomes. Technology holds the answer, and studies have proven that an overwhelming number of learners prefer to take exams remotely, at their own pace, rather than in a face-to-face environment. 

By working together, TQUK and Pass are helping provide the space to do this by building an accessible and streamlined learning experience. Here’s how: 

• Integrating digital learning with assessment

  Pass’s innovative maths and English software compliments TQUK qualifications by providing interactive and user-friendly tools, ensuring learners can prepare effectively for their assessments.

  Features include AI-marked mock exams, which provide instant feedback on where learners can improve, expert tutorial videos on every topic and question answered, and Subject Knowledge Assessments, which pinpoint the areas to work on and help speed up the revision process.

• Supporting continuous improvement

  By working together, TQUK and Pass are committed to developing and refining resources that meet the evolving needs of learners and educators. 

  For example, Pass’s initial assessment functionality will be worked into TQUK’s own system. This allows our educators and learners to access the software and determine the level they’re working at and the correct Functional Skills assessments for them.  

• Providing a strong foundation for success

  We understand that taking exams can be a stressful experience, and we want to provide the best opportunity possible for learners to reach their full potential. 

  Through the Pass Functional Skills platform, learners benefit from a structured, supportive learning environment designed to help them do just that. 

Looking ahead

The partnership between TQUK and Pass marks an important step towards making high-quality education more accessible. With a shared vision for innovation and learner success, we are excited to continue developing new opportunities that enhance education and assessment. 

At TQUK, we believe strong partnerships drive meaningful change, and our collaboration with Pass reflects this commitment. We look forward to supporting even more learners on their journey to achieving recognised qualifications that open doors to future opportunities. 

With the end of the academic year fast approaching, we’re here to help simplify the process of completing your apprentices’ end-point assessments before 31 July! 

In this blog, we will cover eight top tips on achieving timely end-point assessment, ensuring you have everything you need to help your apprentices complete their apprenticeships and step towards their dream careers without any delays. 

Registering apprentices

When you register apprentices, ensure they have an accurate expected gateway date. This helps us maintain sufficient resource levels and achieve our typical EPA completion timeframes. 

Gateway submissions

Getting gateway submissions right the first time is crucial to avoid delays. You can find out more on how to provide accurate apprentice data here. 

Factors to consider with practical observation-based assessments

If apprentices are completing a standard that includes a practical observation-based assessment, we recommend that consideration is given to: 

• the type of activity/activities that need to be observed 

• access to the workplace setting due to closures, etc.

Notifying us of subject areas

Where apprentices are working towards the Learning and Skills Teacher, Learner Mentor, Learning and Skills Mentor, Assessor Coach, or Learning and Skills Assessor standards, we must be notified of the subject area that they deliver as soon as possible. If these subject areas are not provided at registration or ahead of gateway, it may cause a delay in allocation and, therefore, risk the delivery timescale being upheld. 

Updating the external AO ID section

For apprentices on any of the education standards mentioned in the previous point above, please update the ‘External AO ID’ section under each apprentice’s profile with the subject area. This information should be provided at the point of registration; however, you can easily input it on EPAPro before submitting your apprentices through gateway. 

Providing accurate contact details

At the point of gateway submission, ensure that all contact details for the apprentice, On-Programme Assessor, and mentor are correct and up to date in EPAPro. Our End-Point Assessors use this information to get in touch with apprentices, so they must be accurate. 

Ensuring assessment planning meeting availability

Ensure apprentices are available to attend an assessment planning meeting within five days of being accepted through gateway, where these have been requested. Not every standard requires an assessment planning meeting, therefore the option to have one can be selected as you enter gateway.

Sticking to the EPA timeframe

And finally, make sure apprentices can complete their assessments within our outlined average timeframe. TQUK will, where possible, look to schedule assessments as soon as possible but late notice registration to gateway will cause delays. 

By sticking to these top tips and working together, we can help you achieve year-end success! 

For further guidance, please email our Customer Service Team at epasupport@tquk.org or call 03333 583 344.

Discover the empowering journey of Lauren Cunningham IEng MICE, a Design, Engineer, Construct! (DEC) learner turned Engineer at Sweco, as she makes her mark in the exciting world of engineering and construction!

It all began with STEM club

When Lauren was just 12 years old, she did something that not every pre-teen would set their sights on. She began her journey towards a fulfilling and successful career.

Lauren’s passion for an industry she would soon love was sparked during her school’s lunchtime STEM club. It was here that she was first introduced to the (DEC) programme by her teacher, Daniel McDonagh, Education Director at Class of Your Own.

Lauren’s eyes were opened to a whole new world due to St. Ambrose Barlow R C High School’s partnership with Laing O’Rourke (LOR), a multinational construction company, which had helped transform the school’s outreach programme.

Thanks to the dedication of LOR and Lauren’s own zeal for real-life learning, she had access to invaluable advice and guidance from visiting professionals, which played an important role in her development and helped shape her future career.

Becoming a role model to young women

At age 14, Lauren decided to open the door to opportunity and pursue the DEC Level 2 programme, which proved to be an exciting turning point in her life.

By taking part in the programme, Lauren was able to gain valuable knowledge and skills that set her onto a career path she truly believes in.

With a dedication and a passion for her chosen field (at an age that would make even the most qualified and successful individual’s knees tremble), Lauren became an inspiring role model for young females.

This was made possible by her public speaking at various prestigious events, including the UK House of Lords and The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) in Scotland, where she was able to share her experiences and personal insights.

Success in education and early career achievements

Lauren's commitment towards developing her knowledge shone through at the age of 16, when she achieved an A* alongside other top grades in her GCSEs.

However, Lauren’s love for real-life learning led her to leave school and pursue an Advanced Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering with MOUCHEL LIMITED (later WSP) in the Highways division.

Proving that a sprinkle of determination and a dash of hard work can pay off, Lauren went on to complete her apprenticeship two years later with top marks and received an EngTech certification!

Lauren’s exceptional achievements went above and beyond and unsurprisingly were recognised with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Jean Venables award, an ICE QUEST Scholarship, and a Made in Manchester 'Highly Commended' Apprentice of the Year award.

These early career achievements would set the stage for her future success.

University education and professional development

Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, Lauren attended Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) for her degree apprenticeship. During this time, Lauren had the amazing opportunity to spend a year on secondment at Balfour Beatty plc, where she gained practical experience in surveying.

Lauren's commitment to her professional development led her to join Sweco, Europe’s leading design, engineering, environment and regulatory consultancy, a move that advanced her career in Highways.

Whilst working at Sweco, Lauren discovered that they were looking to recruit an apprentice. Jumping at the chance, Lauren helped kick-start the career of a young aspiring DEC student from Cronton Sixth Form College by recommending them to Sweco.

And finally, after five years of studying at LJMU, Lauren graduated with a very well-deserved First-Class degree and an Incorporated Engineer certificate from the ICE.

Making a lasting impact in the world of engineering and construction

Lauren's journey is one of empowerment that demonstrates how women can play an important role within any sector and flourish at what they do, especially within construction which has historically been dominated by a male workforce.

Looking ahead, Lauren has ambitious goals for her future. She aims to become a fully chartered engineer and continue making a difference in engineering and construction by taking on challenging projects that push innovation and sustainability.

Lauren’s experience is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the right opportunities, and she serves as an inspiration for aspiring young female engineers and constructors who want to be part of something extraordinary.

Last week, several changes to end-point assessment were announced.  

One of these related to the removal of Gateway requirements for Functional Skills achievement. Literacy and numeracy skills are key in building any successful career, which is why they have a place in every apprenticeship.  

Creating a system in which English and maths skills are developed and assessed appropriately, without presenting unnecessary barriers, is vital. We welcome and support any actions that help achieve this.  

The intention behind introducing EPA principles is one that we support: we agree that speed and flexibility are important for the government’s growth agenda.  

Quality and rigour are equally important and balancing these priorities must be the focus of any change initiatives. 

We will continue to work with the Department, Federation of Awarding Bodies, Ofqual and other stakeholder groups to understand the detail behind these policy changes, and ensure that our apprenticeship offer remains a relevant and rigorous confirmation of an apprentice’s skills and knowledge.   

Andrew Walker
Managing Director at Training Qualifications UK

There are tons of benefits to apprenticeships. Not one, not two, but enough that we would need more fingers to count them on!  

You must have heard by now the amazing perks that come with taking an apprenticeship – it's advertised on TV, the radio, and even on funky posters around our local Manchester Metrolink.  

These ads all point out the same key factors: apprenticeships give you skills for life, the tempting opportunity to earn on the job, and an alternative pathway to building a career you love. So, it’s no surprise that the popularity of apprenticeships has surged, nearly doubling since 2011. 

This popularity is down to a few factors, including an increased understanding of apprenticeships amongst post-16 learners, and the growing number of employers who’ve opened their doors to apprentices once realising the mutually beneficial aspects. 

According to our Head of End-Point Assessment, Emma Archbold, apprenticeships are the secret weapon for business growth as they help apprentices learn on the job whilst, “allowing employers to assess the skills of individuals and develop wider core skills such as communication, IT and mathematics. These skills can be crucial for both personal growth and the overall development of the workforce.” 

Whether it’s their ability to upskill workforces, enhance employee retention, and even promote team diversity, apprenticeships have cemented themselves as a game-changer in the future of industries. 

Upskilling workforces 

In many cases, apprentices start as a blank slate, eager to learn and master new skills that will help them succeed in their chosen professions. This willingness to learn creates a win-win situation for both apprentices and employers: apprentices put themselves in a strong position for personal and professional growth, while employers benefit from enhanced company performance by building teams equipped with specialised skill sets. 

These talented workforces present an appealing equation: knowledgeable and skilled employees lead to better productivity. The results speak for themselves because according to the National Apprenticeship Service, 78% of employers reported that their workforce productivity improved, with apprentices becoming highly skilled even before completing their training. 

Improving employee retention 

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to employee benefits and what contributes to their happiness in the workplace. For some, flexible hours may be the most important factor, while others might prioritise having a company car or extra holiday time to sip margaritas under a palm tree. 

However, when we remove all the bells and whistles, the core of what truly matters is working for an organisation that invests in its employees. By providing opportunities for professional growth and success, employees feel that they are dedicating their time and effort to a company that values them in return. 

This is perfectly encapsulated by apprenticeships because from day one, apprentices are valued - and they know it! They have an idea of what their next steps are going to be and what they need to do to reach their final goal. 

This sense of investment helps apprentices become happy employees, and you know what they say about happy employees...it’s contagious! So much so that according to a report by the Department for Education, 76% of employers reported improved employee retention after hiring apprentices. 

Diversity 

Lastly, hiring apprentices helps employers to diversify their workforces.  

Apprenticeships are available to individuals of all backgrounds, boosting social mobility and opening employers up to a greater pool of talent. Increased diversity introduces individuals with unique experiences into companies, enabling them to offer fresh opinions, innovative ideas, and new perspectives to a business. 

As you can see, apprenticeships are beneficial to everyone! They give apprentices a chance to learn on the job, gain qualifications and earn a salary, whilst allowing employers to strengthen their workforce with innovative, satisfied employees who have been moulded into experts. 

The Department for Education (DfE) has announced an extension of the current moratorium on Key Stage 4 (KS4) Technical Awards featuring in school performance tables until further notice.

As a result, no new or substantially changed KS4 Technical Awards will be accepted for inclusion in the 2027 performance tables. This decision aligns with the Curriculum and Assessment Review, which evaluates qualification pathways across all key stages (1-5) and aims to provide stability in vocational education for 14-16-year-olds during this review period.

In addition, the post-16 review of qualifications at level 3 and below remains a significant focus for Awarding Organisations, ensuring the sector can effectively prioritise this substantial work.

For updates, please visit the DfE Technical Guidance Page or email the DfE at Technical.EDUCATION@education.gov.uk.

More than 150 qualifications previously considered for defunding have had their approval extended following the conclusion of the Department for Education's (DfE) rapid review.  

Three TQUK qualifications are among those to retain their funding until 31 July 2026. These can be seen below:  

• TQUK Level 3 Diploma in Design, Engineer, Construct! The Digital Built Environment (RQF) (60319938) 

• TQUK Level 3 Certificate in AI Programming with Python (RQF) (61001557) 

• TQUK Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health (RQF) (60332025) 

A fourth - the TQUK Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration (RQF) (60149383) - has had its funding retained until 31 July 2027.  

Five of our qualifications have not had their funding extended. These are:  

• TQUK Level 3 Certificate in Design, Engineer, Construct! The Digital Built Environment (RQF) (60320527) 

• TQUK Level 3 Diploma for the Children's Workforce (Early Years Educator) (RQF) (60176702) 

• TQUK Level 3 Award in Understanding Language Development (RQF) (60337539) 

• TQUK Level 3 Diploma in Engineering (RQF) (60356728) 

• TQUK Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support Work (RQF) (61022494) 

Funding for these qualifications will be withdrawn from 1 August 2025. 

The government's rapid review was announced in July when it paused the previous government's plan to defund a wide range of post-16 qualifications.  

Priority for funding retention has been given to qualifications identified as key to the government's Plan for Change, such as those in manufacturing, agriculture, health and social care, and engineering. 

Minister for Skills, Jacqui Smith, said: “Vocational and technical qualifications are crucial to our Plan for Change and our number one mission to grow the economy. 

“This government is committed to the long-term delivery of T Levels as the best quality technical education option for young people. 

“Qualifications are not one-size-fits-all, and we recognise we must take a pragmatic approach. Our ambitious programme must meet the needs of employers and our public services if we are to see our economy flourish. 

“We took decisive action as soon as we came into government to ensure the best outcomes for learners and I am thankful to all those who contributed to the pause and review.” 

If you have any questions about the rapid review or wish to learn more about how these funding changes may affect you, please email us at support@tquk.org or call us on 0333 358 3344. 

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards in the delivery of qualifications and end-point assessment.  

A critical component of this commitment is the responsibility of training providers and recognised centres to supply accurate and timely learner data. This obligation not only forms part of the contractual agreement with us but also underpins vital principles of regulatory compliance, learner protection, and data integrity.  

Why accurate learner data is essential

The reasons why training providers and recognised centres must provide accurate data are as follows:

• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) - GDPR requires organisations to handle personal data responsibly, securely, and transparently. Providing inaccurate or incorrect information to a learner could be a breach of these laws. Failure to meet GDPR requirements can result in substantial penalties and reputational damage, underscoring the importance of robust data management practices.  

  Think of it this way, if a learner requested the data that you or we hold about them and we provided the contact details for the colleague at a centre, not only would this reflect poorly on all parties, it would be a clear breach of their rights.  

• Protection - There are times when we need to protect learners, such as if a recognised centre or training provider ceases trading or if we identify malpractice. In these instances, we may need to directly contact learners to support them in completing their TQUK qualification. If we don’t have the correct details we risk learners being left out of pocket and without a qualification they really need.

• Contingency planning - Providing accurate data helps with your contingency plans. Should you have operational difficulties and your data is altered or, even worse, lost, you can access a copy of that data from our systems.

How to ensure accurate data

Here are some handy tips for ensuring accurate data when storing it internally and providing us with it: 

Do… 

• register your learners as early as possible 

• collect and verify data from your learners 

• provide us with accurate learner data, particularly learner contact information 

• cross-check the data you are providing in the system 

• provide GDPR and data training to your staff.

Don’t…

• use generic training provider or recognised centre contact information for learners 

• use your or a colleague’s data for learner data, particularly for contact information 

• register your learners at the last minute 

• collect incomplete or inaccurate data from your learners 

• assume that colleagues will understand your company's obligations under GDPR, particularly for accurate data. 

Accurate learner data isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about protecting learners, staying compliant, and keeping things running smoothly.  

By sharing the right information at the right time, you’re helping us work together to support learners and make sure they get the results they’ve worked so hard for.  

Need some help in this department? We’ve got you covered! Get in touch with our Customer Support Team, who are on hand to make your journey a breeze.

As we approach Christmas, we wanted to let you know that the TQUK office will close for the festive period at 1pm on Christmas Eve (Tuesday 24 December 2024) and reopen at 8.30am on Thursday 2 January 2025. The time between these dates will not count towards our timeframes and SLAs. Please see below for further details. 

Functional Skills 

Remote online assessment for Functional Skills will be unaffected by the break and can be taken at any point during Christmas, but technical support will not be available while our office is closed. 

Please note that our six-day results release will be extended, and marking for exams taken over the Christmas closure will resume on Thursday 2 January, with the six-day results re-established from this date. 

End-Point Assessment 

To ensure that gateway submissions are processed before Christmas, please submit evidence by Friday 20 December. 

EPAs must be completed by Monday 16 December for anyone wishing to receive results ahead of the break. MCQ/SJT components must be sat by: 

• Thursday 19 December (for online assessments and MCQs) 

• Monday 16 December (for paper based) 

• Monday 9 December for CYPFM (online or paper based).   

Claims and Certificates 

Certificates can be claimed and manuals ordered at any point up to 1pm on Christmas Eve. If you have DCS and you’re expecting e-certs they will be available straight away; however, if you need paper certificates before Christmas make sure to claim before Friday 20 December. If we need to sample learner assessments for your claim, then the closure will not count towards the SLA and the final date to submit learner work to ensure delivery is Tuesday 10 December.  

Manuals 

Manuals can be ordered at any point up to 1pm on Christmas Eve. The cut-off time for delivery before Christmas is Monday 16 December at 2pm. 

If you have any specific questions about availability up to and during Christmas, please get in touch by emailing us at support@tquk.org or epasupport@tquk.org or by calling on 0333 358 3344.   

The Department for Health and Social Care has shared details of the new Learning and Development Support Scheme and its impact on the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate.

As part of the scheme, adult social care employers can claim funding for eligible staff on a selection of training courses and qualifications, if they have been paid for and started between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 (inclusive).

The Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate is among the approved course list. Eligible employers can claim funding for up to £1500 per qualification.

A combined claims model will be used, with employers claiming 60% of the reimbursement value upon their employee starting the qualification and the remaining 40% coming upon proof of course completion.

This funding is more limited than the previous scheme, with no dedicated funding specifically for the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate. 

You can find out more about the funding and eligibility here.

Let’s be honest: data can seem a bit daunting. 

It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, especially when you're drowning in Excel spreadsheets and buried under piles of documents. Actually using that data to monitor learner performance and help them achieve their best can sometimes lead to that dreaded “s” word... stress.   

Our goal is to simplify things for our customers and turn stress into success. That's why we've launched a new product that will make analysing learner data a breeze.  

Introducing Pulse, our streamlined analytics dashboard that will have you falling in love with your learner data. We never thought we’d romanticise something like... (insert dramatic shudder) data, but the proof is in the pudding.  

Whether it’s Vocational Technical Qualifications, Functional Skills or End-Point Assessments, Pulse is your secret weapon in accessing, analysing and actioning learner data.   

So, bid farewell to jumbled spreadsheets, overflowing folders and numbers that just don't make sense and say hello to organisational bliss. 

What is Pulse?

We’ve mentioned that Pulse is your one-stop shop for all things data, but what does this really mean? Simply put, it means quick access to all the information you need for an in-depth insight into your learners' performance. 

On our user-friendly platform, you can: 

• review gateway submissions, acceptances and rejections 

• understand key gateway metrics, including rejection reasons 

• forecast gateways based on ESFA data 

• see pass rates and first-time pass rates by standard and component 

• analyse upcoming, overdue and voided exam attempts. 

• review learner registrations, certifications and withdrawals. 

• assess Functional Skills results by learner or question  

• get to grips with key data from across the industry.

And just because we’re nice like this, we’re also making it super simple to organise the data. Using the platform’s built-in filters, you can segment by qualification, delivery method, subject method, and much more. You can also subscribe to alerts when there’s new data to review and download to Excel, ready to visualise however you like or include in reports and presentations. Check out our video here for an inside look into the dashboard.

The world’s your oyster! Or at least your pie chart! 

How do I get started with Pulse?

Sounds good, right? Even better, getting started with Pulse is simple. Just get in touch with your Account Manager, drop us a line at business.development@tquk.org, or fill in the form here, and we’ll get back in touch to talk about getting you set up. 

If you’re not currently a TQUK customer, that’s no problem either. You can get on board with us by filling in the forms here and going through our quick and simple centre recognition process.  

Joining us as a new centre means you won’t benefit from Pulse immediately (the dashboards require time to populate with relevant data), but once we have all that information, you’ll be crunching the numbers to your heart’s content! 

So there you have it. Another nifty little TQUK innovation that keeps your finger on the pulse and helps you and your learners achieve success.  

We are constantly developing new, innovative qualifications aimed at helping learners reach new heights, whether that be taking the next step in education, kick-starting a career, embarking on a journey of professional growth, or just learning something new!  

As part of our expansive portfolio, we offer a diverse range of Ofqual regulated qualifications that are eligible for the Adult Skills Fund (ASF). Our qualifications are not only quality-assured but also cost-effective, enabling learning centres to get more from the fund and support more adult learners in reaching their full potential. 

The difference between AEB and ASF 

The ASF is new for the 2024-2025 financial year, taking over from the previous Adult Education Budget (AEB). Like the AEB, it helps train, empower and prepare adult learners for the evolving demands of today’s fast-paced workforce.  

When it comes to eligibility, the ASF makes sure that funding is focused on learners who live in non-devolved areas of England, helping bridge skills gaps and targeting support where it’s needed most. The fund also backs specific adult learning programs with a clear focus: boosting employability and job readiness while aligning with key economic goals. 

You can find out more about the Adult Skills Fund on the ESFA’s website.   

ASF-funded qualifications at TQUK 

Of course, we wouldn’t be TQUK without going above and beyond to provide our customers with a unique offering that helps learners in their area excel. As a result, we’re proud to offer ten qualifications exclusive to TQUK, specialising in vital areas across diverse sectors, including childcare, education, and health and social care. 

These qualifications are: 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Self-Harm and Suicide Awareness and Prevention 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Digital Marketing 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disability 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Distressed Behaviour in Children 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of the Mental Health Worker 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Caring for the Elderly 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Bullying in Children and Young People 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Allergy Awareness 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Living in a Fair and Diverse Society 

• TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Oral Care for Health and Social Care 

But that’s not all. We also provide over 70 more qualifications under the ASF. Find one perfect for you and your learners by clicking here.  

If you’d like to know more, get in touch with us at support@tquk.org, and we’ll give you the guidance you need.