News

Product news and updates.

Under the financial spotlight – what you can do to drive efficiencies

June 9, 2022

All learners have different needs. For the vocational training sector, this can mean differences in capability, homelife situation, workplace demands, learning preferences or, importantly, learning support needs. Without a base-level understanding of neurodiversity, curriculum teams, tutors and employers risk alienating a significant proportion of learners or would-be learners. In our industry, the engagement and progress of every learner matters. Embracing and supporting neurodiversity is a critical part of this.

Sustainability and the rise of the green apprenticeship

June 9, 2022

Two million good-quality green jobs by 2030. Electricity to come from clean sources by 2035. Net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Sustainability commitments made by the UK are bold, as we all know they need to be, but what do these statistics, promises and pledges mean in practice for the skills and employability sector?

Neurodiversity in the 21st Century and why it matters for apprenticeships

May 24, 2022

Attracting young people back to apprenticeships

May 19, 2022

Numbers of apprenticeship starts have dropped significantly since the start of the pandemic, most noticeably among young people under the age of 25, and for apprenticeships at levels 2 and 3. In this article we look at why this may be, the possible consequence of this drop, and the viable solutions that could help attract young people back to apprenticeships.

How growth and tech strategies are inextricably linked

April 27, 2022

Without the right technology in place, ambitious growth cannot be realised. In a world where business differentiation requires personalisation, careful consideration of user experience and business responsiveness, growth is inextricably linked with tech. This article explores how and why technology and business growth should always be considered side-by-side.

Aptem HE Forum recap: Special Interest webinar on ESFA funding compliance

April 26, 2022

More than 80 members of the Aptem Higher Education Forum benefited from a member-only Special Interest webinar on common themes that are cropping up in the HE sector on ESFA funding rule compliance.

Why new technology can feel like it’s uncovering more than it’s fixing

March 8, 2022

To be successful and remain competitive, it’s essential that businesses embrace new technologies. There is no success without progress – and by extension change – but unfortunately change comes with inherent challenges. Whether the new technology you are implementing is customer facing, back-of-house or both, you are bound to come across some difficulties in the process.

Tips for running effective tripartite review meetings

February 17, 2022

Learner reviews are a fundamental aspect of any apprenticeship. Yet running these meetings well is a skill that evidently has not been mastered by all. As shared in a recent webinar on learner reviews by expert consultant Tony Allen, many Ofsted reports feature feedback along the lines of: “Apprentices’ progress reviews do not capture all aspects of apprentices’ development. Employers do not review apprentices’ progress with Coaches. Too often Coaches agree targets with apprentices that are too vague to meaningfully guide the apprentice. Review records do not capture what the apprentices know and understand about areas such as British Values.”

Webinar recap: How to manage employer engagement in the delivery of apprenticeships

February 7, 2022

Tony Allen (CEO of Allen Apprenticeships and Skills), and Ben Drain (Apprenticeships Operations and Quality Director at Pareto Law) presented a webinar for more than 150 apprenticeship providers to explore the topic of effective employer engagement.

With many years of experience in apprenticeships delivery, Tony Allen and Ben Drain have deep insights into where successful providers excel in the services they provide and the growth of their organisations. In this webinar, they focused on one key component – providers’ approaches to employer engagement.

Using behavioural science to enhance apprenticeship delivery

January 14, 2022

“The behaviours required to prosper in a new world are different.” Aptem CEO, Richard Alberg. Although we might not yet be living in what we can call a ‘post-pandemic’ world, the pandemic has already significantly changed the behaviours and skills we need to thrive. Behavioural science can help us to pinpoint and understand these changes, as well as offer useful insights that can be applied to service delivery, and ultimately support people into work.

The evolution of blended learning

December 15, 2021

Blended learning incorporates in-class and remote learning, making use of digital technology to deliver engaging, flexible and collaborative education. Advances in technology have been challenging the classroom-centric mode of teaching since before the pandemic. Yet at the same time, it’s also widely recognised that technology has a significant role to play in education, not least because it is increasingly fundamental to everyday life. The role of education is to prepare young people for independence and success, and digital skills are undoubtedly essential for both.

Reframing apprenticeships: the importance of level 2 and 3 apprenticeships

December 8, 2021

Delivered by employers in partnership with training providers, level two and three apprenticeships offer a concrete and reliable path into employment, and a steady supply of new recruits to companies that can train them in the specific skills they require. However, these lower-level apprenticeships have been overshadowed in recent years by the higher- and degree-level apprenticeships that offer an alternative to university education. The declining uptake in level two and three apprenticeships reflects a missed opportunity for employers and employees alike. Here, we explore why.

Understanding the skills deficit now

December 3, 2021

The skills deficit in the UK is not a new challenge. As reported in our recent skills-focused white paper, in 2019 a quarter of all vacancies were skills-deficit related, with 60% of these in medium- and high-skilled roles. ONS data from October 2021 reveals a record high number of job vacancies between July and September 2021, indicating the re-opening of many sectors. Yet, as pointed out in the Big Issue, much of the positive news around employment relates to low-skilled, temporary and insecure work; a gap is preventing people from finding secure employment to match their skillset and their needs.

This article explores a pan-sector skills gap, the influence of Brexit and coronavirus on the skills gap, the current talent pool, and the future of employment in the UK.

Aptem Annual Survey 2021, prize draw terms and conditions.

November 30, 2021

Terms and conditions for the Aptem Annual Industry Survey 2021, £100 Amazon Voucher Prize Draw The prize draw (the “Prize

How have the government schemes performed at a local level?

November 11, 2021

The government has taken a sector- and skills-specific approach to tackling unemployment across the UK, rather than forming their response to specifically meet challenges as they are presented at a local level. So, how have these schemes performed locally? Have local authorities and businesses been provided with the tools they need to successfully kick-start local economies? And what should their next steps be?

Sunak’s Autumn Budget and Employability Services

November 8, 2021

Announced on 27 October, Rishi Sunak’s autumn budget is as interesting for what it includes as for what is omitted. Given the proximity of the announcement to COP26, the budget has been criticised for a lack of emphasis on green initiatives and the government’s net-zero plan. The cost of long-haul flights is set to rise (with climate change cited as the reason), yet duty on domestic flights has been cut. Overall, as reflected in this particular example, the budget is a mixed bag, offering some causes for celebration, and others for commiseration.

Traineeships explained

October 28, 2021

The government introduced traineeships in 2013 as a stepping stone for young people leaving school to either get into an apprenticeship, or directly into work. They offer a means for school-leavers to gain valuable work experience while filling in any academic gaps with the core subjects of maths and English. Provided by businesses and aimed at young people who are unemployed or have little or no work experience, traineeships give 16- to 24-year- olds a clear pathway into work.

Degree apprenticeships white paper says mandated qualifications should stay

October 20, 2021

The white paper, which includes perspectives from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), the University Vocational Awards Council, former business secretary and leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable and university-based apprenticeship managers, was written to inform the IfATE’s consultation and review of integration and standards in degree apprenticeships.

The white paper found that the function of mandated degrees went far beyond shaping an apprenticeship’s off-the-job training. While much work is needed to ensure degree apprenticeships deliver widening participation, the evidence shows degree qualifications enhance productivity, increase social mobility, and offer enhanced and transferrable skills to graduates and employers.

The Challenge of College Enrolment

October 12, 2021

Colleges are experiencing higher rates of enrolment than ever before and as we approach winter, it’s still unclear whether we’ll be forced to re-introduce measures to control the spread of coronavirus. This means enrolment processes may need to be conducted remotely and thanks to digital solutions, like Aptem Enrol, this is easily done.

Our latest article looks at the challenge of college enrolment and how colleges, students, and employers nationwide benefit from a single, remote enrolment solution.

Coaching support at a distance – using data analytics to enhance employability programmes

October 7, 2021

The Institute of Employability Professionals, Digital Technology Conference took place in September. Mark Abrahams, Head of Research and Analytics at Aptem, presented a data masterclass about utilising data insights from the jobseeker journey. Click to read the highlights from the session and download the webinar content.

Digitalising employment services to survive local authority budget cuts

October 4, 2021

Local authorities around the country are struggling to meet budget-cut demands as they struggle to make do with much less and residents feel the impact. The digitalisation of employability services will be key as local authorities and housing associations struggle to provide the same support as they did pre-pandemic, and for an increased number of jobseekers.

First findings ahead of the furlough scheme ending

October 1, 2021

The government’s furlough scheme is scheduled to finish at the end of September. As we near that date, we take a look at hopes, fears and predictions for the millions of people still being supported by the scheme, and the steps the government can take to safeguard the recovery of our economy.

MWS Technology secures funding from existing investors keen to accelerate the growth of Aptem

September 20, 2021

MWS Technology, the company behind the award-winning Aptem vocational training and employability products, has secured additional funding from existing investors,

The importance of analytics when delivering high quality learning programmes

August 4, 2021

Analytics are essential to deliver on defining characteristics of high quality learning programmes. Here, we explore how and where analytics can play an important role in the delivery of effective learning programmes.

Recovery and renewal: Reflections from the Employment & Skills Convention 2021

July 14, 2021

Following the Employment and Skills Convention 2021, Richard Alberg, Chief Executive Officer at Aptem reflects on the event and the heightened focus required to connect more jobseekers to the right provisions, at the right time.

Aptem Dashboards – insights to track and manage your programmes.

July 11, 2021

Access to data that is visualised in an easy to consume way is critical to understanding insights. That’s why Aptem

How the pandemic has deepened existing inequality especially within employability

June 18, 2021

The last 18 months have been transformative, the coronavirus crisis spearheaded intense change throughout society. Read our news article featured in FE News, which explores inequality in relation to employability.

Enrolling students remotely, with City College Plymouth and Aptem Enrol

June 15, 2021

Mike Jones from City College Plymouth and David Devine from Aptem discussed the benefits of remotely enrolling college students. Mike shared learnings and advice gained from using this system throughout the pandemic period, to continue delivering a high quality enrolment experience for students.

Aptem Product Feature: Customisation – the ability to change the onboarding experience per programme.

June 10, 2021

Programme flexibility is essential in ensuring learners’ individual needs are met. That’s why Aptem has in-built customisation available, which gives

Data Masterclass output – Moving away from being Data Rich Insight Poor

June 9, 2021

Mark Abrahams, Head of Research at Aptem, joined Kerry Boffey from the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN) to host a

Employability and Skills: Plan for Jobs

June 4, 2021

The UK government has introduced an array of initiatives around employability and skills. Over the past year, and as a result

The Role of Apprenticeships in Lifelong Learning

May 26, 2021

In a constantly shifting employment landscape, lifelong learning is essential. Not just to fill emerging job roles, but to ensure

Lifetime and Aptem: Sharing the selection process

May 21, 2021

The methodology involved in Lifetime Training’s procurement of an apprenticeship delivery platform In March 2021, following a year long procurement

Employability and skills: Skills for Jobs

May 19, 2021

The UK government has introduced an array of initiatives around employability and skills. Over the past year, and as a result of the pandemic, it

Why skills matter to individuals, the economy and society.

May 18, 2021

Read Aptem’s recently published a white paper illustrating the state of skills, referencing statistical data and outlining three ways skills matter to individuals and the economy.

Employability inequality- the new normal?

May 18, 2021

2020 was a year of unprecedented change and transformation. The coronavirus crisis catapulted the world into rapid change. Globally, populations

Creating Great Learning Experiences for Apprentices

May 11, 2021

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a key stepping stone for young people moving from school into work. The structured

Tackling the Employability crisis

May 10, 2021

Despite widespread economic turbulence, unemployment may not reach the crisis levels predicted last year. But issues such as underemployment, a

MWS Technology, Aptem: British Data Awards Winner 2021

May 5, 2021

MWS Technology has been named winner at the British Data Awards 2021 in the ‘SME of the Year’ category. Our

Aptem product feature: Sub-programmes

April 30, 2021

Learners are unique and their requirements for learning journeys vary, which is why flexible, personalised approaches to learner programme delivery

Lifetime signs up to Aptem to deliver integrated learning experience

April 28, 2021

Lifetime, the largest training provider in the UK, has signed up to EdTech SaaS platform Aptem to deliver apprenticeships and Kickstart programmes. The contract was signed in March 2021 and Lifetime and Aptem are working closely to onboard Lifetime’s apprenticeship programmes, alongside the successful implementation and launch of Kickstart in April 2021.

Mental health and wellbeing, resilience and the pandemic

April 20, 2021

Since the pandemic started, global mental health has declined significantly. Alongside the stresses caused by chronic uncertainty, isolation and grief, rising unemployment has contributed to a drop in mental wellbeing in populations around the world.
Here, we examine how mental health has changed as a result of the coronavirus, how this converges with experiences of unemployment, and what jobseekers and employers can do to safeguard themselves and others.

Covid-19, BAME young people, and the consequences for employability

April 8, 2021

Heading into the coronavirus pandemic, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups already faced discrimination and inequality, including in access to work. Evidence shows that the virus and its many consequences have also disproportionately affected BAME people. For young people in general, Covid-19 has been particularly challenging, disrupting education, causing and exacerbating mental health issues, and limiting their employment prospects. At the intersection of these two groups, BAME young people are in a particularly challenging position.

Employability the new normal

March 24, 2021

The past year has seen change sweep across every aspect of our lives. The combination of a global pandemic with the rise of automation and an increasingly desperate environmental crisis has impacted everything from how we live and learn to how we work. The shift to remote working is here to stay, with implications for jobseekers, employees and employers alike. There is an opportunity to increase inclusivity, diversity, happiness and productivity. Yet there are also risks tied up with this way of working, from legal implications to its effect on company culture. By exploring these nascent benefits and risks we can move forwards with an awareness that will support the creation of a better future of work for us all.

Aptem’s Higher Education Forum February 2021 – sharing insights and discussing sector issues

March 11, 2021

In February, we hosted our Higher Education (HE) User Forum, where the Aptem Team and our university clients gathered to share insight and knowledge, discuss important issues, review upcoming client-led product updates, and collect feedback on Aptem.

The role of transferable skills in economic recovery

March 10, 2021

The UK faces not just a huge skills deficit, but rising unemployment that’s particularly concentrated in sectors hit hardest by the pandemic, including hospitality, travel and retail. For large numbers of newly unemployed people the path back to work will involve a career change. Whether that means transitioning within a sector to a different role – shaped by new health and safety protocols and increasing automation – or a sidestep into a completely new industry where growth is predicted to continue, individuals will need to identify the skills they have and those they need to get hired.

Rishi Sunak’s Budget received mixed reviews, but there’s good news on skills and jobs

March 4, 2021

The 2021 Budget was always going to be difficult. UK GDP shrank by 9.9% in 2020 and, according to the latest ONS data, 18% of the UK workforce are still furloughed. Meanwhile, 45% of businesses currently trading and 66% of temporarily paused/closed companies have cash reserves of less than six months.

Yet there was plenty in the Budget for skills and jobs, with the extension of schemes to retain business stability and employment, and a gradual rolling out of skills training for the most precarious.

Green skills essential for the UK’s economic recovery

March 4, 2021

The impact of global warming and other environmental disasters have created an impetus for change. For the ‘green industrial revolution’ to be delivered, we need urgent investment in green skills.

Mitigating the scarring effects of youth unemployment caused by Covid-19

February 24, 2021

2020 has been a challenging year. COVID-19 has dramatically accelerated unemployment and had a disproportionate effect on young people, with youth employment falling to its lowest rate since 2014. It has also stalled progress being made in closing the disability employment gap.

Aptem Employ: Three predictions for employability in 2021

February 15, 2021

2020 was a year filled with unprecedented disruption. Globally, remote working became increasingly normal, enacting a digital transformation that looks set to create long-term changes to the world of work that are likely to remain throughout 2021 and beyond.

As we move into the new year, with the hope of recovery on the horizon, it is time to ask: what is the future of employability? Here are three predictions for how the employability will recover and evolve.

Putting skills centre stage in a fast-changing economy

February 15, 2021

With long-term economic changes, the pandemic and Brexit, the employment landscape in the UK is changing. Dr Deborah Talbot talks to Dr Fiona Aldridge, Director of Policy and Research at the Learning and Work Institute, about why skills should be at the core of every UK policy.

University Ofsted inspections more opportunity than risk

February 15, 2021

On 1 April 2021, after nearly four years of lobbying, Ofsted will formally take over the reins of university degree apprenticeship inspections across all levels of study through to level 7. We explore the view that university Ofsted inspections are more opportunity than risk.

New ONS figures reveal impact of coronavirus on economy and jobs

February 10, 2021

The UK has continued to be hit hard by the pandemic. Now enduring a third lockdown, many sectors are struggling, and economic performance and labour force data show steady declines. However, many companies are successfully riding the pandemic by adopting digital and remote working capabilities.

Diversity and inclusion: women, employment and the pandemic

February 10, 2021

Before Covid-19 hit, things were starting to look up for women at work. Equality was becoming more of a concrete possibility and less of a hazy dream. But this achievement has quickly been undermined by the disproportionate effects of the pandemic on working women.

Skills at top of agenda in FE White Paper

January 28, 2021

The Department for Education has published its long-awaited FE White Paper, but is it enough? We look at what’s new and what’s outstanding.

Solving the skills gap for economic recovery

January 21, 2021

2021 needs to be a year of economic recovery. To support that, it’s essential to have a clear idea of the shortcomings in the existing talent pool to fill vacant jobs, and the roles which will see high demand in the coming years. So informed, we will be better equipped to determine the best way to support jobseekers to reskill, upskill and move into secure jobs, and to once again nourish growth and innovation in our economy.

Aptem for [Client Name]

January 19, 2021

Dear [Client Name] Et harum quidem rerum facilis est et expedita distinctio. Nam libero tempore, cum soluta nobis est eligendi

The shape of employability in 2021

December 10, 2020

What should an Independent Training Provider look for in an end-to-end apprenticeship technology solution?

December 3, 2020

Apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as a key means of skills development and are only set to increase in importance. For Independent Training Providers (ITPs) this involves finding ways to streamline the process of apprenticeship delivery and recognising that this is a necessary step to align with current and future education practices.

Report the truth or a well-meaning fiction?

December 1, 2020

Apprenticeship providers are rightly interested in tracking learner progress. But what kind of data and tools do management need to get the facts rather than a well-meaning fiction?

How technology can deliver diversity and inclusion in employability

November 26, 2020

Diversity and inclusion are pressing issues in employability. Technology can help deliver on this agenda by permitting real flexibility and personalisation. Read on to find our how.

Aptem updates for November 2020

November 25, 2020

November sees us continue to focus on improving the platform to support virtual management and delivery whilst increasing flexibility so you can deliver your operating model in the best possible way. To that end, we are pleased to include two significant upgrades in Aptem’s November update – the introduction of Multi-Factor Authentication and the release of the Employer Console.

Aptem’s Higher Education Forum November 2020 – sharing insights and discussing sector issues

November 18, 2020

This month we hosted our Higher Education (HE) User Forum, bringing together the Aptem Team and university clients to share insight and knowledge, discuss pressing issues and gather feedback on Aptem.

Lightening the load: how future technologies could support work coach effectiveness

November 18, 2020

The emergent technologies of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) have produced anxieties about change and potential job losses. But can we see these advanced technologies as assisting and enhancing our jobs? In this article, we look at how new technologies could enhance the effectiveness of job coaches.

‘College of the future’ commission report published

November 3, 2020

The Independent Commission on the College of the Future has published the findings of its investigation into how FE colleges should be structured to address the skills deficit and transform the life chances of individuals in the UK.

Make do and muddle through

October 29, 2020

We are now half-way through the first term of the new academic year. Despite the new lockdown, the government has resolved that schools, colleges and universities will stay open. Of course, things may change as has proven to be the case thus far.

Designing a data strategy for the employability sector

October 29, 2020

Understanding human psychology is invaluable when supporting someone effectively on their journey into work. Employability providers possess increasingly large datasets that, if used well, contain significant insights that could support the provision of a better service. The challenge for a sector under increasing pressure is knowing how to extract meaningful direction from the mountains of data at their fingertips.

Aptem updates for October 2020

October 26, 2020

We are pleased to announce that the Aptem Development Team pushed lived October’s update which included the new Aptem Employ Dashboard and a number of major enhancements to our onboarding process.

Supporting effective personalisation in employability services

October 21, 2020

Personalisation has become a buzzword in employability. But has the employment sector achieved personalisation and, if not, what should it look like?

Just IT implements Aptem to deliver innovative apprenticeships

October 12, 2020

Just IT selected Aptem as the platform to deliver its innovative IT and Digital apprenticeships. Sam Tobin, Service Delivery Director at Just IT, explains the reasons for their choice: “We wanted to source an intelligent, end-to-end system. The look, feel and usability of the interface was a critical factor for us. The Aptem platform is essentially our customers’ experience of Just IT.” In this article we explore this very successful implementation and key learnings for anyone considering an end-to-end system.

Solving unemployment at scale – a response to ONS data

October 7, 2020

As the ONS has reported, unemployment is rising. The 16-24 age group, who typically occupy roles in some of the worst hit sectors including hospitality, entertainment and the arts, have been particularly affected. However, the spike in unemployment caused by COVID-19 is pan-generational. In August 2020, the claimant count reached 2.7 million people, an increase of 120.8% since March 2020. Notably, there is a significant rise in the number of people unemployed for up to six months, up 202,000 over the year to 988,000. This poses an additional challenge; it’s widely recognised that the longer someone is out of work, the harder it is for them to re-enter the workforce.

Apprenticeships – is it time for a rebrand?

October 7, 2020

When you mention apprenticeships to most people – unless they are in the skills sector – they immediately think of physical, hands-on activity like carpentry or car maintenance. But while there are still many manual apprenticeships on offer, today’s apprenticeship standards also include subjects like data science and advanced forensic practitioner.
Given words have meaning, is it time for apprenticeships to have a rebrand?

Skills sector is vital to the Covid-19 unemployment fall-out

September 29, 2020

GDP is sharply down, and unemployment is rising. Big sectors which have helped many enter the labour force such as hospitality are hard hit and not likely to perform the same role in the next recovery. How bad could unemployment become, and what can we do to arrest its growth and help the out of work redeploy their skills? In this piece we look at the ONS forecasts, compare them with previous recessions and recoveries and seek to draw conclusions relevant to skills training.

Why EdTech is crucial for FE providers to facilitate success

September 14, 2020

The way we learn needs to reflect how we live and work. Our daily lives are a seamless blend of physical and digital interactions. Schedules are increasingly flexible, with portfolio careers on the rise and continuous learning becoming a more common feature of our routines.

Developments in education technology represent an opportunity to prepare young people and adults with the skills and capabilities they will need to thrive in the future. Not only that, but for further education colleges and independent training providers, EdTech offers solutions that can help them successfully address the UK skills gap and guide students into promising careers.

Here, we will explore what EdTech offers the further education sector and explain why it’s time to embrace the confluence of technology and learning.

Cybersecurity functionality critical for CAEHRS digital employability solutions

September 3, 2020

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), as part of its Commercial Agreement for the Provision of Employment and Health Related Services (CAEHRS), prioritises the role of digital solutions to employability programmes. How do providers ensure that the digital solutions they offer are cybersecure?

A Level algorithm chaos is a failure to test and consult

August 25, 2020

The UK’s A Level results were unusually disastrous this year, throwing into doubt our children’s futures as well as university admissions processes. What went wrong?

Aptem updates for August 2020

August 15, 2020

Typically things would begin to slow down across the education sector as the summer holidays commence. This year, that’s not quite the case as providers are working hard to get back to a relative normality.

The Aptem development team is no exception. This month we are pleased to share with you our list of updates and upgrades to bring Aptem clients an enhanced user experience.

A How-To-Guide to Generating an ILR Batch File for Upload

August 5, 2020

Aptem can automatically generate the official XML format for the review of individual learning records and batch uploads to the

A How-To-Guide to Enabling the Skills Forward API

August 5, 2020

The Skills Forward integration allows Aptem to communicate with Skills Forward via their API. This guide explains the steps you need

A How-To-Guide to Creating a Learner Account

August 4, 2020

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A How-To-Guide to Uploading Documents for Project Managers

August 4, 2020

This guide explains how project managers can securely share confidential documents such as the ILR XML file via the organisation

A How-To-Guide to Importing ILR Data into Aptem

August 4, 2020

This guide is for clients who are moving to the Aptem platform from another ePortfolio/MIS system and wish to import

Case Study: University of Nottingham – Implementing and Using Aptem Apprentice

July 29, 2020

The University of Nottingham signed up to Aptem in June 2019 and used it to manage their degree apprenticeship programmes from September 2019. In this case study, we talk about their journey of implementation and how Aptem is improving their administration and delivery.

A How-To-Guide for Students and Learners

July 27, 2020

A How-To-Guide to Delivering Workshops Online with Zoom / VLE

July 27, 2020

Technology is a core part of the CAEHRS framework

July 22, 2020

Digital services are one of the criteria for the Department of Work and Pensions CAEHRS framework for employability procurement. So how can you access the technology you need to ensure a viable bid?

Welcoming We Are Digital to Aptem Skills

July 21, 2020

We Are Digital recently entered the world of ESFA funded programmes and were looking for a system to help them deliver high quality employability programmes whilst efficiently managing compliance. Here’s why they chose Aptem.

Aptem’s Higher Education Forum July 2020 – sharing insights and discussing sector issues

July 16, 2020

The Aptem Higher Education User Forum, made up of Aptem’s University clients with representation from UVAC, met in July 2020 to discuss a range of sector issues and share insights.

Aptem updates for July 2020

July 15, 2020

We’re at the height of the summer, new sectors of the economy have opened up as lockdown eases, and providers are busy planning their next academic year.

This ‘slightly shorter than normal’ list of updates recognises that the introduction of new functionality for better management of bursary payments, is a major development.

‘Kickstart’ the economy with Apprenticeships and Traineeships

July 10, 2020

The Chancellor’s summer statement focuses on three things:

1. Support jobs
2. Protect jobs
3. Create jobs

This government clearly acknowledges the role for continued work-based skills development, through apprenticeships and traineeships.

Sector news during Covid-19

July 8, 2020

Education and skills providers are under pressure as the effects of the pandemic bite, while the Treasury announces plans to address economic collapse and rising unemployment.

CAEHRS – themes, take outs and the role for the Housing Sector – Communities that Work webinar

July 6, 2020

The employment services market has suddenly shifted. Pre-March 2020, the sector contained jobseekers, many of whom were not job ready and a fairly long way from the employment market. In Autumn 2020, we will be looking at very large volumes of broadly job ready jobseekers, who may need some retraining.

Sector news during Covid-19: Unemployment rockets and Centre For Social Justice launches skills report

June 25, 2020

Jobcentre claimants have risen from 1.24 million to 2.8 million over the course of the UK pandemic, the Guardian has revealed, a rise some analysts said was the worst in over 100 years.

Case study: Learning Curve Group

June 22, 2020

Learning Curve Group (LCG) is a national training and education company, working with training providers, employers and learners to help them achieve success.

Aptem updates for June 2020

June 16, 2020

We are having some beautiful weather lately, and we hope you are all able to enjoy it safely. Our team has been active this month implementing ways to improve the Aptem user experience. Here’s what we are pushing live in June 2020.

Sector news during Covid-19 – PM Boris Johnson “guarantees” an apprenticeship for every young person

June 11, 2020

This week we take a look at government plans for economic recovery after the easing of the lockdown, where skills feature high on the agenda.

Covid-19 sector news round-up

June 1, 2020

As the lockdown eases slowly, what does this mean for the learning and employment sector? This week, we look at rising unemployment and an ambitious ‘Back to Work’ plan, and ask whether universities will move online for the next academic year.

Aptem awarded Innovate UK full grant funding to develop employability platform

May 21, 2020

Aptem is delighted to announce that it has been awarded £46,531 from Innovate UK to update its employability platform, Aptem Employ. The grant will help address rising unemployment from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Covid-19 sector news round-up

May 18, 2020

In our bi-monthly news blog, we look at how the apprenticeship and training sector has been affected by the coronavirus crisis. This month, apprenticeships minister says online delivery is the solution for ITPs, university bailout rejected and the pros and cons of online learning delivery.

Aptem updates for May 2020

May 15, 2020

We may all be in lockdown, but our team has been busy this month with several new features that will make your life easier.

Aptem case study: Central YMCA

May 4, 2020

YMCA Training had a long and illustrious history, having been set up during the deep recession of the 1970s to help young people to find new opportunities through training and employment. Five years ago, YMCA Training was brought into Central YMCA.

Covid-19 sector news round-up April 2020

April 22, 2020

In our new bi-monthly news blog, we are looking at how the apprenticeship and training sector has been affected by the coronavirus crisis. This month, AELP seeks legal advice over DfE exclusion of apprenticeship providers, and while universities struggle financially, EdTech experimentation takes off.

Aptem updates for April 2020

April 15, 2020

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this month including updates to the OData feed, ILR QA privileges and filtered batch files.

Covid-19: statement from Richard Alberg, CEO of MWS Technology

March 20, 2020

Covid-19 is a frightening pandemic and looks set to change the way the world works and studies for the foreseeable future. On behalf of all of us at MWS Technology, our thoughts are with those affected and the dedicated doctors and nurses working tirelessly to save our lives.

Remote and distance learning in the COVID-19 crisis

March 20, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic is unprecedented in recent history, and it’s forcing training providers to innovate around distance/remote learning. Aptem, an intuitive, all-in-one EdTech platform – can help.

Aptem updates for March 2020

March 16, 2020

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this month including updates to Learning Plans, Compliance Documents and Reviews.

EdTech can transform learning… if we let it

March 10, 2020

Deborah Talbot, Communications Officer at MWS, talked to Vikki Liogier, National Head of EdTech and Digital Skills at the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) about the benefits of, and barriers towards, using EdTech in colleges

Apprenticeship funding is under pressure… but we have a new apprenticeship and skills minister

March 3, 2020

A study by the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) and Public First on apprenticeship levy funding has shown that lowering the £3 million annual payroll threshold to £1 million would not generate enough revenue to meet the funding shortfall for SME apprenticeships.

Failure to use data is costing UK business over £10 billion a year, says report

February 17, 2020

A report by Qlik and Accenture says that the reluctance to train employees in data analysis is costing the UK and other national economies billions every year.

Aptem updates for February 2020

February 17, 2020

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this month including updates to administrator roles and permissions.

MWS DfE apprenticeship data article in FE News

February 14, 2020

Mark Abrahams, Head of Research and Analytics at MWS Technology, featured in a published article in FE News on the 11th February.

Skills gap to cost the UK £120 billion by 2030, says report

January 31, 2020

A report by the Learning and Work Institute (L&W) says that the UK skills deficit will cost the country £120 billion by 2030.

Aptem updates for January 2020

January 27, 2020

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this month including updates to the administrator view of Learning Plans, the Signatures tile and reviews.

The EdTech learning revolution

January 20, 2020

Technology is impacting society and everyday life in all sectors, yet education and training lag conspicuously behind. Should the education and training sector be more technologically engaged, and what are the implications for pedagogy?

MWS Technology’s CEO in FE Week

January 16, 2020

Richard Alberg, CEO of MWS Technology, published an Op-Ed in FE Week on the 11th January.

Aptem Area Analysis Tool renamed as Aptem Intelligence Dashboard

January 6, 2020

The Aptem Area Analysis Tool has been renamed as the Aptem Intelligence Dashboard (AID), to acknowledge the intelligence it provides

Aptem updates for December 2019

December 16, 2019

Learn about the latest Aptem updates that went live in December including the option to upload PDFs through the SCORM asset tile.

Aptem Area Analysis Tool now contains 2017 – 2019 apprenticeship data

December 16, 2019

We have updated our interactive Aptem Area Analysis Tool to include 2018/2019 apprenticeship data, so that providers can view trends,

MWS Technology wins EducationInvestor Award

December 9, 2019

We are thrilled to announce that we have been judged to be the winner of the ICT – platforms and

The Data Challenge – Aptem launches integrated Power BI analytics

November 19, 2019

MWS has integrated Power BI into the Aptem interface. What does that mean for your business? Our latest blog tells you about our radical innovation which makes data analytics available to all our clients – with no additional specialist IT expertise needed.

Aptem updates for November Updates

November 19, 2019

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this month including all four Power BI dashboards being made available and Review Manager improvements.

Greater insight, seamless compliance and more control over your apprenticeship delivery

November 11, 2019

Aptem clients now have more detailed insight, seamless compliance and greater control over their apprenticeship delivery with Power BI dashboards.

What do the apprenticeship stats really tell us?

November 1, 2019

Every year a new tranche of apprenticeships statistics is published, telling us often conflicting news about new starts and success

What providers can expect from Ofsted

October 21, 2019

Interview with Chris Jones, Her Majesty’s Inspector — Specialist Adviser for Apprenticeships There’s no avoiding Ofsted if you are an

Aptem updates for October 2019

October 17, 2019

Enhanced functionality in the October 2019 update includes – “Episode” information added to reporting functions and mass programme enrolment feature.

Skills drive productivity increases, says Learning and Work Institute report

October 15, 2019

A report published earlier this year by the Learning and Work Institute (L&W) shows the intrinsic link between skills and

Ofsted’s new inspection framework in the spotlight

October 2, 2019

Ofsted has started delivering on its new inspection framework. What can providers expect?

Aptem’s new user interface is just around the corner

September 23, 2019

We strive to offer the best in class solution to our clients, and therefore, we are incredibly excited to announce

Are apprenticeships facing an uncertain future?

September 16, 2019

The UK government has continued to assert its support for apprenticeships. But are the assurances wearing thin?

Reducing the stress of Ofsted visits

August 19, 2019

Ofsted visits are notoriously stressful – if you’re caught off guard, staff can end up in a panic trying to reconcile all the data and information to present to Ofsted. Aptem instils a sense of calm with a selection of features that drive, and effectively demonstrate to Ofsted, progression and development.

Aptem updates for Summer 2019

August 15, 2019

We are pleased to share the details of the most significant Aptem updates that went live this summer. If you have any questions regarding these updates, please contact us at info@aptem.co.uk.

Education Select Committee says FE Colleges need funding boost

July 31, 2019

The Parliamentary Select Committee for Education has published a damning report into education funding for the FE sector.
Calling for a ten-year plan to “fix the broken school and college funding system,” the report refers to a “troubling lack of a long-term vision” and “winner takes all short-termism” driven by a “politically-driven spending review cycle.”

Richard Alberg in FE Week

July 18, 2019

Richard Alberg, CEO of MWS Technology, has been featured in FE Week. In an opinion piece on why FE colleges need to harness big data to survive and thrive.

Where should the axe fall? The apprenticeship funding crisis revisited

July 17, 2019

Apprenticeship policy is a victim of its success, say government ministers, as the options for funding have once again become a subject for controversy. Richard Alberg, CEO of MWS Technology, looks at the options.

MWS publishes new eBook on apprenticeship compliance

July 2, 2019

Most apprenticeship providers grapple daily with the demands of regulatory compliance. Our new eBook, Demystifying Apprenticeship Compliance, interviews industry experts about the regulation governing apprenticeships.

MWS launches Aptem Area Analysis Tool

July 2, 2019

Looking to bring the benefits of big data to the apprenticeships sector, MWS has taken Department for Education data and transformed it into an interactive map designed to help providers plan their offering.

The public/private dilemma in apprenticeship training

June 20, 2019

The UK government has consistently pushed the benefits of opening up education to the private sector. But is the private sector any better than FE and HE institutions when it comes to delivering apprenticeship training? Deborah Talbot weighs the benefits of each.

User profile update

June 13, 2019

We are pleased to share the details of our latest update to the user profile in Aptem. If you have any questions regarding this update, please contact us at info@aptem.co.uk.

Augar report turns the tables on educational funding priorities

June 12, 2019

Deborah Talbot, Communications Officer at MWS, looks at the recently published Augar report and asks whether it really has the

Beating the skills gap with UVAC — Interview with Mandy Crawford-Lee

May 23, 2019

Apprenticeship policy is about addressing the skills and productivity gap. But is it working? Deborah Talbot talks to Mandy Crawford-Lee, Director of Policy and Operations at the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC).

What Degree and Master’s Apprenticeships offer the Russell Group

May 22, 2019

Degree and master’s apprenticeships are a fast-growing area of apprenticeship training, rising from 7.4% of new starts in 2016-17 to 17.5% of new starts in 2018-19. But do apprenticeships work for the Russell Group?

ESFA ‘off-the-job’ recording change shows benefit of Aptem

May 14, 2019

The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) have changed the off-the-job ILR data field from optional to mandatory. Providers will now be required to record planned hours to demonstrate ESFA compliance.

Recent Aptem updates

May 13, 2019

We are pleased to share the details of the latest updates to Aptem. If you have any questions regarding these updates, please contact us at info@aptem.co.uk. Functional skills initial assessment. Bksb functional skills initial assessments can now be configured as part of the Onboarding Wizard (provided bksb integration is enabled and configured)…

When the Levy breaks — Interview with Mark Dawe

May 8, 2019

Is the government’s apprenticeship policy working? And why is there a fall in new apprenticeship starts but a potential levy overspend? MWS’s Deborah Talbot talks apprenticeship policy and funding with Mark Dawe, CEO of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP).

Three T Levels to be launched in 2020

April 16, 2019

The government has announced that it is launching the first three T Levels in the Autumn of 2020. But what are T Levels, and will they help deliver the government’s skills strategy?

More Aptem enhancements for March 2019

March 19, 2019

As scheduled, our development team have pushed lived the second round of enhancements to Aptem this week. Allow provider to edit ILR Learner Reference Number Aptem generates a reference number for each learner which previously populated ILRs automatically. This update allows providers to overwrite the reference number field in the ILR with their own…

First round of Aptem updates for March 2019

March 7, 2019

Our development team have pushed live even more updates this week to further enhance Aptem functionality. Here are the details of the new functionality that we released. Granular date control for Learning Plans You can now set the due date for Learning Plans by day or week as well as month. In conjunction with…

More upgrades for Aptem customers

February 19, 2019

Our development team continue to bring enhanced Aptem functionality that improves delivery for providers, universities, colleges and employer-providers whilst improving the learning experience for thousands of learners across the country. Here are the details of the new functionality that we pushed live in February. Enhancements to Aptem’s Learning Plan The new Learning Plan functionality…

Greater flexibility within Aptem’s Learning Plan

February 11, 2019

Providers can now lock down a scalable Learning Plan while enabling certain staff to make modifications for particular learners. MWS Technology is pleased to announce even greater functionality within Aptem’s Learning Plan, allowing providers to lock down a scalable delivery model, while having the flexibility to grant certain staff and experienced tutors with permissions to…

We’ve found a new home

January 24, 2019

Our growing team needed a new space so we said goodbye to our office at Highgate Studios and have moved to Camden Town. Our new address is: 3 Harmood Grove London NW1 8DH The nearest underground stations are Chalk Farm and Camden Town on the Northern Line. We look forward to welcoming you here!

Funding apprenticeships after Levy overspend

January 22, 2019

Apprenticeship numbers are falling, but the Institute for Apprenticeships calculates that the levy will be overspent. What’s going on, and what should the government do about it? Richard Alberg, CEO of MWS Technology, discusses the options.

Aptem customers enjoy another round of new functionality

January 15, 2019

After a well-deserved Christmas break, our development team were straight back to work bringing customers even more Aptem upgrades. Here are the details of new functionality that we released in January. Learning Plan Component and Tasks We have updated Learning Plan components instructions & task details to support text formatting. Some of the new formatting…

Aptem users enjoy new functionality

December 21, 2018

The Aptem development team have been busy creating new functionality to better support organisations with their apprenticeship delivery. Here are details of new functionality that we released in December. QAR Report Providers, universities and colleges are finding the new QAR Reporting feature incredibly valuable, as it helps you predict what your QAR rating will be.

Will the new RoATP guidelines drive up quality?

December 10, 2018

The ESFA recently announced more stringent rules to get on, and stay on, the RoATP. Will they work? Deborah Talbot takes a look at what’s changed. Since the UK government created the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers (RoATP) in March 2017, concerns…

Introducing the latest members of our growing team

November 25, 2018

This month we have welcomed several new colleagues, with additions to our Implementation, Customer Support, Marketing and Business Development teams. Our new members bring valuable skills and experience to the company, helping us improve our overall service, communicate more effectively with those we are selling to and to develop the relationships we have with our…

Smart machines can transform apprenticeships

November 15, 2018

Artificial intelligence, or the rise of the smart machine, is the stuff of science fiction. But applying machine learning to apprenticeships can deliver a better learning experience, argues Mark Abrahams, Head of Research at MWS Technology.

Keeping our ear to the ground – HE user group

November 13, 2018

Yesterday, we hosted our inaugural Higher Education User Group chaired by Buckinghamshire New University’s Director of Strategic Development and Planning. In attendance we had many of our HE customers including the University of Salford, Ada the National College for Digital Skills, Harper Adams University, University of Plymouth, to name a few. During the day, useful…

Looking forward to the AELP Autumn Conference

October 10, 2018

AELP Autumn Conference 2018 The Principal Manchester Oxford Street Manchester M60 7HA Tuesday 30th October www.aelpautumnconference.org.uk The Aptem Team is excited to attend the AELP Autumn Conference. Visit us at stand 6 to see how Aptem can enhance every aspect of apprenticeship and vocational training delivery. Aptem has a rapidly growing list of customers,

Find us on Linkedin

September 10, 2018

We are proud to announce that we have just published our new Aptem showcase page on LinkedIn. On our LinkedIn page, we will be sharing engaging content focused on apprenticeships and vocational training. We have exciting and useful material in the pipeline including eBooks, case studies and quarterly newsletters that contain market analysis, interviews and…

MWS releases custom reviews through Aptem’s Enhanced Review Manager

August 23, 2018

We are delighted to announce the release of Aptem’s enhanced Review Manager, allowing providers to easily create custom reviews for all review types, including Initial, 121 and Tripartite, and even customise the sections within each review. This functionality is unavailable within any other delivery platform. The Review Manager ensures that tutors follow the provider’s required…

MWS celebrates G-Cloud 10 Framework re-listing

July 5, 2018

MWS Technology (MWS), providers of the leading end-to-end software solution built to cover the lifecycle of the apprenticeship journey, is delighted to announce that their application to the government’s G-Cloud Digital Marketplace has been successful yet again. MWS’s solutions are listed as approved cloud software by the government’s Crown Commercial Service for another year. This…

MWS Technology announces further investment and board member appointments

June 22, 2018

MWS Technology (MWS) is delighted to announce the investment of over £1m from the Guinness Asset Management EIS fund and the appointment of three new board members. The investment from Guinness Asset Management will enable MWS to further develop its sales and marketing team, invest in product development and create eLearning content. Commenting on the…

Join the MWS team for prosecco and beer at the AELP National Conference

June 12, 2018

AELP National Conference 2018 Monday 25 & Tuesday 26 June Novotel London West, Hammersmith www.aelpnationalconference.org.uk Visit us at stand 19 to see how Aptem can make your apprenticeship delivery business more efficient, compliant and profitable. Please join us for prosecco and beer at 3:40pm on 25 June. Aptem has quickly gained momentum as the…

AELP Colleges Summit May 2, 2018

April 5, 2018

We are excited to be exhibiting at the AELP Spring Conference at BMA House, London on Wednesday, 2 May 2018. As the leading sector trade association, AELP offers advice and help with the evolving challenges faced by its members. This AELP Colleges Spring Summit will focus on: Updates from DfE/IfA in regards policy development specifically of…

AELP Universities Summit April 26, 2018

April 3, 2018

The AELP Spring Conference at the MacDonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham on Thursday, 26 April 2018 is fast approaching. The number of HEIs in the market place has grown significantly and AELP offers support with the different challenges they face. The AELP Spring Summit provides updates on current apprenticeship funding, the wider reforms and what lies ahead…

Partnership is the key to innovation

November 16, 2017

MWS places a high value on partnering with providers. Close working relationships give us a deep insight into current needs and help us to develop useful new features for Aptem, our easy-to-use apprenticeship delivery platform. Our latest partnership is with the Sussex Council of Training Providers. As a new Commercial Associate member, MWS Technology will…

Episteme Group insists on delivery excellence

November 6, 2017

With a combined 45 years of experience in workforce solutions, the team at Episteme Group know exactly what it is looking for in apprenticeship delivery. The team members have pooled their expertise to found an innovative company which provides apprenticeship programme back office support and compliance to large employers. Quality, efficiency and compliance sit at the…

World class training with Corndel

October 3, 2017

Since May this year, Corndel has used Aptem for the end-to-end delivery of its world-class training programmes. Alongside its Software Engineering Academy, Corndel has also focused on developing high-quality Leadership and Management training courses, accredited by the Chartered Management Institute, which learners access online through Aptem’s eLearning functionality. The learners and Corndel staff have enjoyed…

BlackRock Training goes live with Aptem

October 2, 2017

BlackRock Training works with Apprenticeship Levy paying employers and training providers to deliver Level 3 and Level 5 Leadership and Management training. To ensure the right quality for its delivery, BlackRock looked at many apprenticeship technology solutions. Ultimately the team concluded that Aptem’s end-to-end functionality met its strategic needs: to strengthen delivery, save costs and…

Working with the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network

September 25, 2017

MWS Technology is excited to be sponsoring the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network meeting on Tuesday, September 26 in Evershot, near Dorchester. This collaborative network includes training providers, colleges, employers and stakeholder bodies working in the post-16 education and training sector. Members share ideas and work together to improve the experiences of the learners, employers…

AELP Autumn Conference Autumn 2017

September 10, 2017

The AELP Autumn Conference, takes place on Wednesday November 1. Six months after the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy, it’s a good opportunity to review programme reforms, explore what improvements are still needed and look at what progress has been made in safeguarding of programme quality. Delegates will also focus on training issues and work…

Driving down apprenticeship delivery costs using technology

August 1, 2017

With the changes to funding rules, profitable delivery of apprenticeships is a challenge facing every provider. A growing number have either gone out of business or have decided to wind down their organisation. At the same time, some providers are doing extremely well.

Better the devil you know?

July 12, 2017

When we speak to providers about their apprenticeship delivery systems, we do sometimes encounter the phrase immortalised by that global pop sensation, Kylie Minogue: ‘Better the devil you know’.

Introducing our new apprenticeship platform

December 28, 2016

MWS are thrilled to announce the launch of our new apprenticeship platform. As providers contemplate the increased opportunities – and competition – heralded by the Apprenticeship Levy, Aptem offers a transformative tech-first approach to delivery. With the Aptem Collaboration Centre at its centre, Aptem ensures that every participant can see what they need to do and…

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