FE News

How to Use Online Platforms Effectively in Teaching including AI
2025-02-19 10:00 - 11:30 (Europe/London) | Online
Overview

The effective use of technology in teaching is no longer a choice but a necessity for educators to provide engaging and meaningful sessions. Online and blended learning approaches offer significant benefits, including flexibility, enhanced learner engagement and opportunities to develop digital skills. While Ofsted is cautious about the use of AI, it does recognise the importance of integrating technology into teaching to create dynamic and meaningful learning experiences.

This interactive webinar will explore how online platforms, when used effectively, can transform teaching practices and improve learner outcomes. With the inclusion of AI tools, educators can enhance interactivity, personalisation and collaborative opportunities, fostering a richer and more impactful learning environment.

This session will provide insights into how to leverage core online platforms and AI tools, with practical strategies for implementation, ensuring confident engagement with digital resources to achieve educational objectives.

This webinar will support educators and providers to:

Strengthen confidence in digital teaching methodologies, including AI-enhanced approaches.

Offer practical strategies for creating flexible and engaging online or blended learning experiences.

Help participants enhance their digital skills and build capacity to deliver high-quality online education.

Develop actionable insights and a roadmap for to support a robust and modern online teaching offer that aligns with the latest trends and learner needs.

Objectives

This in depth (deep dive) interactive webinar will:

Review the essential functionalities of key online platforms and emerging AI tools;

Explore techniques for maximising the effectiveness of online platforms to enhance teaching and learning;

Develop confidence in using interactive technology to engage learners and support collaboration;

Formulate a personalised action plan to integrate online platforms and AI into teaching practices.

Facilitator

Christine Edwards QTLS, Creating Excellence

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Implementing a New Audit & Risk Committee
2025-02-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
The ESFA Provider Financial Handbook requires/recommends that most providers establish an ‘independent’ Audit & Risk Committee as an important contributor to protecting public funding.
The concept of an Audit & Risk Committee is new to most ITPs and at this important workshop we will consider:

the approach to establishing an effective and compliant Audit & Risk Committee
membership, terms of reference, agendas, frequency of meetings and reporting arrangements
the importance of establishing an annual audit cycle and an annual reporting plan
the controls and assurance framework needed for audit to be effective
the interface between the Audit & Risk Committee, the Board and the Senior Management Team

At the workshop we will give clear guidance and advice on how to interpret the expectations of the handbook and how to ensure that the Audit & Risk Committee is embedded and adding value to you organisation within a 12 month timeframe.

Apprenticeships – understanding the AAF (Apprenticeship Accountability Framework)
2025-02-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

Attending this session will allow delegates to recap on the key components and requirements of a key performance measuring framework in place for apprenticeship providers – the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework (AAF).

In addition to this, we will explore ways in which providers can align the external measures to internal performance monitoring and how this is essential to improving provider outcomes.

The webinar will facilitate the sharing of provider practice and support best practice examples for managing data and operational practice to fully integrate and embed the AAF framework.

Objectives

This webinar will provide delegates with:

A deeper understanding of the most recent Apprenticeship Accountability Framework;

An understanding of how to align operational performance and practice to external measures to support business efficiencies and improved outcomes;

An opportunity to explore best practice activities to support a cross organisational understanding and commitment to key provider performance measures.

Facilitator

Natalie Rae, Director, Education & Skills Consultant, Natalie Rae Consultancy LTD

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Designing and Tendering for Skills Bootcamps
2025-02-25 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
Overview

Skills Bootcamps were the ‘go-to’ development programme under the last Government.

The new Government have stated that future opportunities under this funding stream will be available at Mayoral Combined Authority, or Local Authority/Local Enterprise Partnership level.

This half day interactive online workshop will look at the nuances and details of Skills Bootcamps and help providers to ‘get their ducks in a row’.

Objectives

This session is designed to help you meet the following learning objectives:

Have a clear understanding of Skills Bootcamps, the outcomes required and the associated payment triggers;

Understand how to create a solution and translate this to a high-quality tender;

Effectively plan a submission and understand what comes next.

Who should attend?

All providers who want to become involved in the Skills Bootcamp arena.

Those responsible for making decisions on what to bid for and those within each organisation tasked to complete the solution design and tender activity, likely to be:

Directors;

Business Development Professional;

Proposal Writers;

Heads of Delivery.

Facilitator

Steve O’Hare, Director, SCLO Con

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Creating and using individual training plans - supporting apprentice success
2025-02-25 13:30 - 16:30 | Online
Individual training plans (or learning plans) are a vital mechanism to help shape the apprentice’s learning, address support needs and improve their success.
All too often, however, training plans can end up becoming a tick-box exercise for compliance purposes.
So how do we create and use individual training plans as a living breathing document? How can they be designed to improve apprentice success, whilst meeting ESFA and Ofsted requirements?
Over a 3 hour interactive online Masterclass, Chris Cherry will take you through a step-by-step example of how to:

Get to grips with the key components of the training plan, including curriculum and compliance requirements
Draw from the apprentice’s initial assessment, and their wider support needs, to truly individualise the plan
Write and build in learning objectives for the purpose of training and assessment
Use the training plan to signpost to strategies for learning
Integrate maths, English and digital skills
Use and adapt the plan with the apprentice throughout their learning journey to support success

During the session, you’ll work on short activities at each stage to develop your understanding and skill and come away with a clear model you can use for the apprentices you support.
About your session
The session will be facilitated by Chris Cherry an SDN expert in apprenticeship on-programme training and end-point assessment. Chris has supported hundreds of apprenticeship organisations to develop their curriculum against the new standards and has lots of insights to share.
This Masterclass is designed for any mid-level managers and front-line staff involved in apprenticeship training.
“Breaking down the KSB’s and how the curriculum forms the ILP was a key learning point. Excellent session and also enjoyed the pre-training recording.”
– Orange Moon Training
“I’ve been trawling the internet and asked FE colleagues about curriculum design and found nothing useful. This is just the ticket. Very engaging, informative and fun to listen to. I’ve learned more in the first 15 minutes than the previous 15 years.”
“Very informative and helpful”
– Previous event attendees
Booking and payment:
You can either attend the live session or be sent the recording and materials if you prefer to go through it in your own time but we highly reccommend attending live to get the most out of this interactive session.
If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.
If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)
Any questions, please email us.
SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

The Coffee Break
2025-02-27 10:00 - 10:30 | Online
Are you struggling to get your organisational colleagues to engage in a new initiative, technology or process? Want to get suggestions or feedback from a wide network of learning technology professionals? Come along to The Coffee Break to talk through your innovation challenges or simply to network. After all, a problem shared is a problem halved (or maybe solved.)We noticed that many ALT members engaging in its JiscMail groups were hitting blockers when trying to introduce new ways of working or different technologies. Members reported challenges around engagement of colleagues, making the case for change and securing senior level buy-in. And so the idea for the Coffee Break was born.

Exploring the Digital Domain
2025-02-27 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

Join this dynamic webinar to gain a clear understanding of the current online landscape for learners. The session addresses key challenges such as sharing, communication, gaming, and navigating online relationships, equipping professionals with the knowledge to support learners effectively.

Discover strategies to foster digital literacy and enhance online awareness, empowering learners to navigate the digital world safely and reduce risks of harm. Engage with practical insights to make a meaningful impact in today’s digital age.

Objectives

By attending this webinar, you will:

Enhance your professional expertise – in identifying and addressing the four key areas of online risks:

Content: Recognise and respond to exposure to illegal, inappropriate, or harmful material;

Contact: Understand harmful online interactions and their potential impact on learners;

Conduct: Address behaviours that increase vulnerability to harm;

Commerce: Identify risks such as gambling, phishing, and financial scams.

Benefit your learners: Empower your learners to engage in the digital world safely, fostering critical awareness, responsible behaviours, and resilience to potential online harms.

Facilitator

Charlotte Witherspoon, Safeguarding Consultant, ECP Safeguarding

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Preparing for an Apprenticeship Audit
2025-02-27 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
Education and Skills Funding Agency funding rules and requirements are disparate, complex and easy to misinterpret.
The responsibility for identifying irregularities in the claims process, in part rests with the ESFA’s Provider Risk and Assurance Team who have been instrumental in recovering millions of pounds from providers through the extrapolated clawback process.
In addition, the ESFA undertake desktop Financial Audits on your monthly returns with a view to identifying errors, inconsistencies and potential overclaims.
At this important seminar we will talk through the audit requirements of the apprenticeship model, giving you tips and advice to ensure that your paperwork is robust and that you are prepared for the audit review.
The seminar will cover:
The ESFA Audit Process and what you can expect;
The Sample Testing Process, error reporting and the potential consequences of getting it wrong;
The key documentation you will need to have available and the importance of ensuring its compliance with the funding guidance and audit requirements;
The importance of using PDSATs and key Funding Monitoring Reports;
We will also share our own experience of being audited by the ESFA—where we secured a 0% error rate.

Subcontracting Standard Assurance Approach
2025-03-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This webinar will help delegates understand the auditor’s perspective of the subcontracting standard assurance journey, from self-assessment and external audit, through to ESFA evaluation and outcome. We will consider the requirements of the auditor to enable providers to meet that expectation and facilitate a successful outcome when being assessed against the requirements of the subcontracting standard.

Objectives

To offer support on the following issues:

Familiarisation with the self-assessment document;

Understanding when next to self-assess and to schedule audit of the self-assessment

Focussing attention on key points from the assessment;

Learning from experiences of subcontracting standard audits completed;

Establishing the ESFA evaluation process.

Facilitator

Rupert Crossland, Director of Audit and Compliance, Professional Assessment Limited (PAL)

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Unlocking Talent: The Power of Flexible Working
2025-03-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Overview

Finding the right candidate for the job can be tough, and recruitment is increasingly becoming a time-consuming process.

Discover how flexibility can expand your talent pool; attract a more diverse range of applicants; lead to cost savings and increase the appeal of your business to potential employees.

Jane will discuss best practice from working with hundreds of employers, and sharing case studies of what to do, and what not to do and how this can attract and retain skilled staff including women returners.

Making small changes to job adverts and ways of working can make a big difference and reach out to a whole new audience.

If you’re looking for staff and want to increase your reach, then join this informal, practical, and forward-thinking webinar to embrace the new way of working that can help retain and attract new staff.

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Gain insight to the impact of flexible and hybrid working on staff well-being;

Understand how to prioritise women’s health and well-being in the workplace inc. the menopause and mid-life women;

Find out how to introduce flexibility into the workplace without impacting productivity and budgets;

Understand the boundaries of when flex working is right, or not right for the business needs;

Agree three small changes to make a big impact on your business.

Facilitator

Jane Knight, Founder of Successful Mums Career Academy

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Devolved Adult Skills Fund Tender Opportunities
2025-03-06 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

Devolution of the Adult Education Budget now the Adult Skills Fund has been one of the biggest changes within the adult education market in recent history.

In August 2025, the newly formed East Midlands Combined County Authority and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority will be taking control of their own budgets to deliver these programmes. In addition, areas, which currently have devolved activity will be looking to let further contracts.

This means that procurement processes are due for completion between now and August 2024, so why not join this webinar to learn more about these opportunities and pick-up best practice tips on tendering for these types of opportunity.

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Have a clear understanding Adult Skills Fund devolution;

Have a clear understanding of the steps required to design successful submissions;

Be clear on the types of questions that will be asked and how to answer these.

Facilitator

Steve O’Hare, Director, SCLO Consulting limited

Click here to find out more information or to register.

NAMSS Annual Conference
2025-03-10 09:00 - 2025-03-11 15:00 | Hilton Liverpool City Centre, 3 Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool, L1 8LW, United Kingdom
The 2025 Conference will include a wide range of workshops, 4 keynote sessions and the Market Place will be a great opportunity for delegates to visit organisations offering innovative services and solutions for student service provision.

This years’ NAMSS Student Services Awards will be announced live during Mondays Gala Dinner; the perfect time to catch up with colleagues, old and new.

We are delighted to have Howden as our main sponsor for 2025. Our thanks also go to the Caribbean Elective for sponsoring our Gala Dinner and Barry Bennett for providing a free delegate place to one of our members.

Non NAMSS members welcome.

Differentiation and Inclusion
2025-03-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This webinar is part of a series of webinars focusing on pedagogy and improving Teaching & Learning. The sessions will ensure that delegates can make practical differences to their teaching immediately.

Click the links to register your interest in the rest of this series.

Part 1 How to ask Great Questions to Enhance Learning (on demand)

Part 2 Assessment for Learning (on demand)

Part 3 Classroom Management Strategies (on demand)

Part 5 Effective relationships for learning

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Understand the principles of differentiation and inclusion and their significance in supporting diverse learners;

Identify practical strategies to tailor instruction that meets the needs of students with varying abilities and backgrounds;

Explore methods for creating inclusive learning environments that promote equal access and participation for all students;

Develop skills to adapt resources and assessment methods that accommodate individual learning styles and needs.

Facilitator

Paul Wakeling, Education Consultant

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Achieving Compliance in Claiming Learning Support and Applying Functional Skills Exceptions
2025-03-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This session will unpack the apprenticeship funding rules for learning support (LS). We will look at some of the key compliance considerations that should be addressed when:

Assessing learning difficulty;

Planning a relevant programme of support;

Evidencing delivery of learning support;

Evaluating whether it is necessary and appropriate for support to continue.

Separate to Learning Support, we will also discuss the new flexibility for Functional Skills for apprentices with learning difficulties or disabilities.

An opportunity to understand DfE’s expectations, reflect on your own procedures, establish best practice and to ask questions.

Objectives

Our objectives are aligned with the DfE’s expectations. The DfE expect providers to:

Put reasonable adjustments in place for learners who require them;

Decide on the suitability of your screening and assessment methods;

Ensure learning support is relevantly applied and appropriately claimed.

The points above will then enable providers to be confident in claiming learning support funding. They will compliment your efforts to meet the moral and legal requirements of inclusion, and equality and diversity.

Also, to confidently determine when an apprentice should be required only to achieve Entry 3 Functional Skills.

Facilitator

Rupert Crossland, Director of Audit and Compliance, Professional Assessment Limited (PAL)

Succeeding in Regulatory Compliance
2025-03-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Hyatt Regency, 2 Bridge St, Birmingham, B1 2JZ, United Kingdom
Are you looking to improve your understanding and delivery in the areas of regulation and compliance, and in reducing the risks of regulatory interest and action in the coming 12 months? This not-to-be-missed, one-day event is aimed at practitioners and line managers who are delivering regulatory-orientated functions. It will be helpful to those working in any UK jurisdiction.

This not-to-be-missed, one-day event is aimed at practitioners and line managers who are delivering regulatory-orientated functions and will be helpful to those working in any UK jurisdiction.

Why should I attend?

Expert insights: Gain valuable perspectives from regulators and Awarding Organisation colleagues.

Practical solutions: Explore best practices and tackle ongoing challenges in a supportive environment.

Tailored for you: Perfect for professionals from Awarding Organisations (AOs), End-Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs), and those considering applications for recognition

Key topics:

Trends and issues from a regulatory perspective

Organisational design and governance

Assessment design and delivery

Relationship management

Format of the day:

Hosted by Dr Fiona Summers, Deputy CEO at Laser Learning Awards and Non-Executive Director at Federation of Awarding Bodies, the day will include an introduction from Ofqual, followed by four deep-dive sessions on key aspects of regulation and compliance lead by senior figures in awarding organisations with a strong background in regulatory policy. Each session includes a presentation, group exercise, and Q&A. The event will conclude with a panel discussion featuring all session leads.

Implementing Version 2 of the 2024-25 Apprenticeship Funding Rules
2025-03-17 09:00 - 10:30 | Online
The Department for Education has just dropped a major update to the 2024-25 Apprenticeship Funding Rules – and the changes take effect immediately.
From 11 February, apprentices aged 19+ at start will no longer need to pass Level 2 Functional Skills to complete their apprenticeship. This applies to both new and existing learners. These changes will have significant implications for your staff, systems, and processes from both a compliance and quality perspective. Additional minor clarifications have also been made to rules on reservations of funds, co-investment and levy transfer but it is the functional skills changes which will require significant policy, administration and implementation updates.
A quick headline summary won’t cut it. That’s why we’re running a 90-minute deep-dive session to help you fully understand the impact, make the necessary adjustments, and implement these changes confidently.
We’ll also give you a detailed implementation action plan and a Functional Skills Declaration tool – the declaration will be available to download on receipt of booking. (The declaration is required in the new rules to evidence the apprentice and employer decision to continue or stop their Functional Skills programme).
Delivered by funding and compliance specialist David Lockhart-Hawkins (with added contributions from quality specialist Lou Doyle from Mesma and expert in Maths, English, and Digital Skills Christine Edwards QTLS, Creative Excellence), here’s what the session will cover:

A clear breakdown of the key rule changes – who they apply to and when
Practical implications for compliance across your learner journey (initial assessment, training plans, and more)
How this could influence your approach to English and maths, curriculum and potential implications for inspection
Practical actions you need to take across your organisation – systems, processes and staff
Live Q&A with David to give you the confidence you need to implement these changes

The CPD session will take place on Monday, 17 March (9.00-10.30am) with the Functional Skills Declaration issued ahead of the session.
Alongside the session, action plan and tool, you will also receive a 25% discount to our deep-dive CPD on the 2025-26 funding rules. We’ll share more during the session.
About your session
The session will be facilitated by David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s compliance and funding expert who has supported hundreds of providers in their apprenticeship journey including some of the UK’s largest, highest quality, specialist and new providers. David’s in-depth understanding of curriculum design and quality, as well as funding, gives him a unique insight into the practical implications of funding rule changes.
Added contributions from:
Lou Doyle, CEO Mesma and Senior Strategic Associate SDN
Louise specialises in change leadership continuous improvement, quality assurance and governance. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Mesma (quality assurance experts and providers of online software, tools and in-depth support), and has previously held senior positions in education, after holding management positions in multinational businesses. She has worked extensively with colleges, universities and independent training providers to enhance the quality of provision. Louise holds a number of education governance roles and is both a T Level and Apprenticeship Ambassador. She has a Masters in Educational Leadership.
Christine Edwards QTLS, Creative ExcellenceA leading expert in Maths, English, and Digital Skills within apprenticeship education, Christine Edwards has been driving improvement since 2003. She specialises in embedding these essential skills into training, helping providers enhance teaching quality and learner success. Through her work with the Apprenticeship Workforce Development Programme and Greater Manchester Multiply Provider Support Programme, she delivers CPD, strategic support, and innovative teaching solutions. Passionate about improving skills for work and life, Christine is also exploring AI’s role in education to enhance teaching practices and support effective contextualisation of Maths and English into programmes.
This session is designed for apprenticeship providers – compliance and operational staff, quality managers, and leaders overseeing the impact on the apprenticeship delivery journey.
“This was excellent. You feel that an awful lot of work has gone into producing this, packed with helpful content, guidance and experience. Thank you so much!”
“I will be recommending colleagues to sign up to training alerts. Really looking forward to attending other sessions.”
“Very useful – as always. Thorough and detailed, with great slides to support.”
“It was very clear that a large amount of time and effort has gone into the preparation of today’s event – and that is why SDN is my first choice for webinars.”
“Excellent coverage, well planned and organised with clear expertise in the funding rules”
– Event attendees
Booking and payment:
You can either attend the live sessions or be sent the recording and materials if you prefer to review them in your own time.
If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)
SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Designated Safeguarding Lead Training
2025-03-18 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
Overview

It is a statutory obligation for those with a lead or designated professional role for safeguarding to meet a ‘robust two yearly training’ requirement. Having completed safeguarding awareness training, this webinar equips professionals to perform their senior safeguarding function.

AELP are delighted to be working with Education Child Protection (ECP) to offer this course, which holds 6 Continuous Professional Development (CPD) credits. When certificated, delegates can use the ECP centre number to record the activity as CPD.

Please note: Delegates will be required to attend both sessions fully in order to receive the CPD credits. If you don’t attend both sessions and participate you will not be eligible for a certificate. Please note that attendance is monitored by the software.

Please ensure that you test your system here before attending the webinar.

Objectives

This in-depth webinar will cover:

Understanding of the Safeguarding Framework, including legislation and statutory guidance;

Effective implementation of Duty of Care within the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead;

Exploration of effective and robust record keeping;

Understanding the referral process and effective information sharing, and mental capacity;

Responding effectively to whistleblowing concerns;

Understanding of thresholds and risk analysis within the context of safeguarding.

Management of safeguarding across challenging topics including Domestic Abuse, ‘so-called’ Honour Based Abuse, Exploitation including Radicalisation, Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment (child on child abuse), Mental Health and Trauma Informed Practice.

For more information on course content and outcomes please watch this video:

Facilitator

Carly Spicer, Safeguarding Consultant, ECP Safeguarding

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Making The Leap's Early Careers Talent Fair 2025, supported by Pentland Brands
2025-03-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Emmanuel Centre, Emmanuel Centre, 9-23 Marsham St, London, London, London, SW1P 3DW, United Kingdom
Are you a teacher or tutor looking to bring a group of students to this Careers Fair? Please contact marketingcomms@mtl.org.uk

Making The Leap are hosting an Early Careers Talent Fair specifically for those aged 16-19 from less advantaged socio-economic backgrounds, with exhibitors from a range of industries including law, financial services, real estate, fashion and more.

On the back of National Careers Week (March 3rd-8th), which focuses on guidance and resources, this Early Careers Talent Fair is designed for young people looking to take their next step by exploring live apprenticeship and internship opportunities, and meeting employers who will be hiring for these roles.

Which companies will be exhibiting?

Pentland Brands: Owner of Sports, Outdoor and Fashion retailers

bp: Oil and gas company

BNP Paribas: Financial Services company

Paul, Weiss: Law firm

OCS: Global facilities services organisation

CloserStill Media: Events company

Savills: Real estate company

Legal and General: Financial services company

For those interested in visual effects and animations, employees from Framestore will also be at the fair representing Access VFX to provide advice on getting into the VFX and animation industries!

**Attendees who fill out a feedback form will be entered into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher!**

Who are we?

Since 1993, Making The Leap has been committed to supporting young people as they develop skills, build confidence, and access employment opportunities. Our Early Careers Talent Fair is in association with the global business behind some of the world’s best-loved sports, outdoor and lifestyle brands, Pentland Brands.

Teachers or tutors looking to bring a group of students, please contact gerard.brand@mtl.org.uk

Policy & Research Working Group - Improving the way Ofsted inspects education
2025-03-20 14:00 - 15:00
Please join us for our fourth Policy and research group.

As part of FIN’s ongoing commitment to excellence and improvement in education, FIN’s Policy and Research Group (FPRG) will gather insights and opinions from our members regarding Ofsted’s recent proposals for fairer education inspection and report cards; outlined in the press release on 3rd February 2025. During the session we will provide an overview of Ofsted’s proposals and their intended outcomes, discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of the proposed changes and consider how these changes may impact educational institutions and stakeholders. We invite our members to join us to contribute to suggested improvements or alternatives to the proposals. The group will work collaboratively to draft a comprehensive response to the consultation that FIN will submit on behalf of its members and their stakeholders.

Please read Ofsted’s press release here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/improving-the-way-ofsted-inspects-education

If you have any problems registering please email Caroline at info@fin-online.org.uk for assistance

Events – Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (fin-online.org.uk)

Cracking the code: Selling innovation and driving adoption in workforce development
2025-03-20 15:00 - 16:00 | CodeNode, 10 South Pl, City of London, London, EC2M 7EB, United Kingdom
In today’s rapidly evolving workforce landscape, buyers of skills development technology face mounting pressures. Innovators often struggle to identify and engage with the right buyer in an increasingly competitive market, while organisations are under growing pressure to demonstrate clear return on investment.

So what does this mean for investors and founders shaping the future of workforce development?

Join us for an insightful session, where investors, founders and buyers will share their perspectives on the complexities of the current landscape. Through discussion, we’ll explore the different strategies that can enable the uptake of emerging solutions to meet real-world workforce needs.

Attendees can look forward to fresh insights on overcoming market challenges, delivering measurable impact and leveraging innovation to build a more resilient and skilled workforce.

Speakers

Louise Marston, Directory of Ventures, Resolution Foundation

Alexandros Anousis, Global Head of Digital Learning, Ocado Group

Greg Freeman, Founder and CEO, Data Literacy Academy

Helen Gironi, Director of Ventures, Ufi VocTech Trust

This event is being hosted at CodeNode in London’s Liverpool street.Refreshments will be served. Guests are invited to stay on to attend the Ufi VocTech Showcase taking place later in the afternoon.

Empowering change: How do we build a skills system for a thriving future?
2025-03-20 16:30 - 17:30 | CodeNode, 10 South Pl, City of London, London, EC2M 7EB, United Kingdom
Join the conversation shaping the future of skills in the UK. As part of the Week of VocTech, this session brings together leading voices to explore the systemic reforms needed to create a more accessible, effective, and future-ready approach to skills development.

Featuring:

Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, Co-Chair of Trustees, Institute for the Future of Work;

Mary Curnock-Cook CBE, Chair of Pearson Education UK and the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology; and

Rebecca Garrod-Waters, Chief Executive, Ufi VocTech Trust

With a focus on structural change, emerging technologies, and innovative approaches, the discussion will highlight the critical shifts required to ensure everyone has the opportunity to unlock their potential and gain the skills necessary to thrive in work.

By examining both challenges and opportunities, our speakers will seek to shape a vision for a skills system that is equitable, adaptable, and aligned with the evolving demands of the workforce.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the discussion of how the UK can build a skills system that empowers individuals, fuels business success, and accelerates economic growth.

Ufi VocTech Showcase 2025
2025-03-20 17:30 - 21:00 | CodeNode, 10 South Pl, City of London, London, EC2M 7EB, United Kingdom
The highlight of the Week of VocTech. Come together to celebrate, explore and be inspired by vocational technology.

Bringing together tech innovators, learning providers, employers and investors the VocTech Showcase from the Ufi VocTech Trust provides a unique opportunity to celebrate and share the impact of vocational technology, get hands-on with a selection of Ufi-supported tech, and strengthen connections across the voctech community.

The Showcase 2025 returns with an inspiring collection of vocational technology to explore. Meet the teams behind the tech and try it out for yourself. Explore who will be demonstrating here.

Our new venue

The Ufi VocTech Showcase 2025 is being hosted at CodeNode in London’s Liverpool street, a purpose built venue for digital, creative and innovation events. Refreshments will be served.

SCL Education Group to Showcase Core Skills Provision at Moving On Event in Leeds
2025-03-24 08:00 - 17:00 | Benton Park School, Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS19 6LX
SCL Education Group is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming Moving On Event, taking place on Monday, 24th March 2025, at Benton Park School, Harrogate Road, LS19 6LX. Organised by Leeds City College in partnership with Leeds City Council, this vital event is aimed at supporting young people in Leeds who are at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).

SCL Education Group will be exhibiting at the event to highlight the range of Core Skills and vocational training programmes available to young people seeking new pathways into education and employment. The Moving On Event will provide a unique opportunity for school staff to gather key resources, information, and contact details to better support students in their transition towards meaningful career opportunities.

Empowering Young People Through Education

SCL Education Group is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities to young people in Leeds. In collaboration with Leeds Rhinos Foundation, SCL has launched a 13-week ‘Destination Focused’ education programme, designed to help young people develop essential skills and gain valuable work experience in a professional environment.

With an attendance rate exceeding 90% in the first two weeks, the programme has already enrolled 47 young people and is making a significant impact on learners’ engagement, confidence, and career readiness.

What to Expect at the Moving On Event

The Moving On Event 2025 will feature a mix of presentations from training providers, a careers fair-style carousel, and networking opportunities for school staff and young people. Attendees will gain firsthand insights into available courses, work placements, and professional development pathways that can help shape their futures.

Stuart Allen, Chief Education Officer for SCL Group, added:“We are delighted to attend the ‘Moving On Event’ so that we can showcase our destination focused programme to the young people of Leeds. It’s a great opportunity to see where we can engage, motivate and inspire these brilliant young people with an opportunity to find their talent, develop their behaviours and enhance the opportunities for them to flourish within their future lives. Exciting times for us, local employers and for the young people of Leeds.”

Join Us at the Moving On Event

SCL Education Group invites school staff, career advisors, and young people to visit their stall at the Moving On Event to learn more about their Core Skills provision and innovative NEET programmes. This is an invaluable chance to explore educational pathways and access resources that can help shape the future of Leeds’ young people.

Christina Comrie, Teacher for SCL Group is excited for the event and added “Every young person holds extraordinary potential—unlocked through belief, unwavering support, and opportunity. At SCL, we don’t just educate; we empower. We ignite ambition and stand proudly beside our incredible young people as they shape their passions and purpose.

We are excited to connect with school staff, career advisors, and the amazing young people of Leeds, at the Moving On Event, where we’ll showcase how our Core Skills provision and innovative NEET programmes are transforming futures. We look forward to meeting the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers ready to leave their mark on the world.”

About SCL Education GroupSCL is a market-leading education, skills, and training provider, dedicated to inspiring the lives of young people through 16-19 study programmes, apprenticeships, and adult skills training. With a strong focus on tailored learning and employability, SCL is committed to shaping brighter futures through education.

Neurodiversity Navigators: Tips for Inclusive Success Sponsored by Cognassist
2025-03-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

Neurodiversity is a hot topic in many forums, spend a few minutes on social media and it’s clear there is a rising discussion. The expectation to meet the needs of those with differing Neurotypes is enshrined in the Equality Act 2010 and the SEND Code of Practice.

But with increasing time and budget pressures, how can we address the needs of an increasingly neuro-aware population? Should we be paying attention? Can we successfully build a neuroinclusive culture and keep to our budgets? This webinar is designed as an introduction to addressing this, to growing the understanding of current research-led good practice in Neurodiversity and perhaps picking up a few simple, cost-effective “hacks” along the way.

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Gain a clear understanding of the background to Neurodiversity and why the language around it is important;

Develop an awareness of current research that challenges common stereotypes around differing neurotypes;

Consider how person-centred, strength-based practice can strengthen your record keeping and onboarding processes, to increase disclosure;

Gain insight into simple changes that offer support and build a wider culture of neuro-inclusivity.

Facilitator

Rachel Bradford, Specialist Inclusive Learning Coordinator, MTC Training

Guest Speaker

Vicky Harold, Customer Success Education Lead, Cognassist

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Apprenticeship Curriculum Design
2025-03-26 13:00 - 16:30 | Online
Whether you’ve been on our curriculum webinar series, or are new to SDN, this Masterclass will help you hone your skills as a curriculum developer.

Developing a curriculum for apprenticeship standards is challenging. In many cases, it is less prescribed, employers have greater input into the content and sequencing, and the prior learning of the apprentice needs to be taken into account.

It’s something the ESFA and Ofsted are looking at closely too.

Over a 3.5-hour interactive online session, Chris Cherry will take you through a step-by-step example of how to deconstruct a standard and build the curriculum from the top down.

During the session, you’ll work on short activities at each stage to develop your understanding and skill and come away with a clear model you can use for the apprenticeship standards you deliver.

We also host another Masterclass in Apprenticeship Curriculum Design for HEIs, which you can find here.

Here’s what we’ll cover during the session:

The principles of good-quality curriculum design
A practical step-by-step worked example:

Deconstructing the standard and amplifying the KSBs
Articulating the learning outcomes, deciding on the learning methods and building in other components
Shaping this into ‘episodes of learning’ as part of a Scheme of Work
Translating the Scheme of Work into an Individual Learning Plan which takes both the apprentice’s prior learning and employer requirements into account

Practical tips on how to adjust the curriculum and training plan “mid-flight” during the programme, to meet the needs of the apprentice and employer

About your session

The session will be facilitated by Chris Cherry an SDN expert in apprenticeship on-programme training and end-point assessment. Chris has supported hundreds of apprenticeship organisations to develop their curriculum against the new standards and has lots of insights to share.

This masterclass is designed for those involved in the design and development of your apprenticeship curriculum and materials.

Before the session, you’ll be sent a 1-hr webinar, giving you an overview of the curriculum planning process for apprenticeship standards.

“Breaking down the KSB’s and how the curriculum forms the ILP was a key learning point. Excellent session and also enjoyed the pre-training recording.”

– Orange Moon Training

“I’ve been trawling the internet and asked FE colleagues about curriculum design and found nothing useful. This is just the ticket. Very engaging, informative and fun to listen to. I’ve learned more in the first 15 minutes than the previous 15 years.”

“Very informative and helpful”

– Previous event attendees

Booking and payment:

You can either attend the live session or be sent the recording and materials if you prefer to go through it in your own time but we highly reccommend attending live to get the most out of this interactive session.

If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

Any questions, please email us.

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Strategic planning and the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework
2025-03-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Providers are measured and monitored by their performance against the indicators of the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework. Understanding the measures and the data used is essential for any leader and manager in the sector. In April 2024 the Department for Education updated the indicators for the framework and these will have significant impact on providers and their planning.
But how do we work with the data effectively and how do we benchmark performance? What do we do with it and how do we plan and implement appropriate actions to improve?

Being aware of how the data is formed, the measures within it and how to respond is vital to managing effective provision from both a quality and a compliance perspective but being able to put the data in context, set effective targets and work with the results is the real challenge.
That’s why this 2-hour deep-dive session will help you improve your understanding, get effective ways of planning and effective implementation of strategy in this area to lay a strong foundation for the coming years.

*New for 2025 – updated content including analysis of the new indicator measurements, and with QAR and retention benchmarking using rates published in March 2024.
During the session, we’ll look at:

Understanding the Apprenticeship Training Provider Accountability Framework, the indicators and risks
How the framework works with quality inspection
Data, Strategy, Context and setting effective targets
Interventions and working with action plans
Q&A

About your session

David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s compliance expert produced this session.
David has experience of working with hundreds of high performing apprenticeship organisations over the last twenty years, including some of the UK’s largest, highest quality, specialist and new providers.

If you are involved in apprenticeship management, leadership and monitoring apprenticeship performance, this session is for you!

“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”
– Event attendee

“I wished I had done it 18m ago when I got involved with apprenticeships.”
– Head of Quality & Improvement/DSL, Central College of Animal Studies

“Very well delivered, clear and very good subject knowledge”
– Team Leader Horticulture Apprentices, Capel Manor College

Booking and payment:

We recommend attending our workshops live, but you can also be sent the recordings and materials if you prefer to review them in your own time.

If you have several staff who would benefit, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.

If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)

SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Apprenticeship Care Leavers Bursary
2025-04-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
OverviewFind out about financial support for apprentices who have been in local authority care, and payments to their training providers and employers.

Understand how to fulfil training provider responsibilities as set out in the funding rules, resolve uncertainties about eligibility and the claiming process.

ObjectivesThis webinar will help delegates to:

– Understand care leaver participation in apprenticeships and the scale of bursary underclaiming;– Understand eligibility for the apprenticeships care leavers’ bursary;– Fulfill training providers’ responsibilities and role in facilitating bursary payments from DfE/ESFA and to the apprentice;– Claim additional payments for training providers and employers.

Webinar Chair: Cheryl Swales, Head of Strategic Projects, AELP

Facilitator: Paul Russell, Policy Advisor, Department for Education

Guest Speakers: Jim Thomas, Finance & Fraud Prevention Officer, Gingernut Training and Toni McClelland-Couchman, Digital

FREE for all to attend.

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Claiming apprenticeship learning support funding (LSF) with confidence - 2024/25
2025-04-08 10:00 - 2025-04-10 12:00 | Online
From 1st August 2024, revised funding rules bring additional flexibilities and opportunities for providers to better support their apprentices with learning difficulties or disabilities.
Apprenticeship providers often lack confidence in claiming Learning Support Funding (LSF) but the August changes should result in more providers generating the additional revenue they are entitled to as well as being able to apply new functional skills flexibilities for apprentices with special educational needs, learning difficulties or disabilities which should promote increased completions and retention.
That’s why we’re hosting this two-part webinar series to examine the rules and evidence needed to apply learning support in 2024/25 but also use our experience of delivering outstanding quality to demonstrate solutions that make a real difference to the apprentice and provider experience.
This session builds on our incredibly popular 2023/24 session, with significant new content and learning resources to help practitioners develop their support systems. The sessions will bring you up to date with rules but spend most time on how these can be implemented including changes like the timing of support reviews and, most importantly, flexibilities on the required level of functional skills that may be applicable for an individual with a learning difficulty or disability.
Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the rules and giving best practice guidance on how to support a claim, we’ll take you through:

The 24/25 Funding Rules for learning support and the key changes from 2023/24
The foundations of learning support infrastructure
– Screening for learning difficulties and disabilities
– Needs Assessment
– Support Planning
– Support Review
Applying the 2024/25 functional skills flexibilities
Funding claim controls and using the Earnings Adjustment Statement
Funding Compliance management

Hosted across two 2hr sessions:
Part 1: Understanding the learning support and functional skills flexibility funding rules and relevant legislation
Part 2: Implementing best practice and an effective learning support management structure
Delegates will receive a handbook featuring activities that further develop learning in each session as well as a learning support structure compliance action plan.
Our package options also include document templates for meeting 2024/25 funding rules and additional consultancy on a one to one basis.
About your session
David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s compliance expert will facilitate this series.
David has experience of working with hundreds of high performing apprenticeship organisations over the last twenty years, including some of the UK’s largest, highest quality, specialist and new providers.
The session has been designed for those involved in apprenticeship compliance and learner support e.g. Operation Managers, Learning Support Managers, trainers and administration managers.
“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”
– Event attendee
Booking and payment:
You can either attend the session live or be sent the recordings and materials, if you prefer to review them in your own time.
If you have three or more staff who would benefit, or would like your wider teams/staff to have access, let us know and we’ll send you details of the most cost-effective way of accessing the session.
If you’re a public sector body (e.g. Local Authority), and unable to book via card, please email us. When you make a booking, you agree to these Terms and Conditions (including those who request a booking via email and invoice)
SDN CPD is designed for Government funded Training Providers. If you’re not a Government funded Training Provider but are still interested in attending please email events@strategicdevelopmentnetwork.co.uk to discuss your attendance in more detail before booking.

Unpacking Provider Data Self-Assessment Toolkits (PDSATs) with a former SFA audit manager
2025-04-09 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
OverviewThis webinar will help you as a provider to use PDSATs to their full potential in line with DFE expectations. Reviewing PDSATs will enable you to investigate anomalies which would otherwise be raised in an DFE funding audit, and resolve the issue either ensuring learner records are on file to validate the data, or by updating the data. Using PDSATs to manage the validity of your organisation’s ILR data will help you to safeguard your funding, minimise audit errors and protect your reputation with the DFE.

ObjectivesBy the end of this session, you will be able to:

Select PDSAT reports that require investigation of potential funding errors;Identify anomalies in PDSAT reports that require particular remedial actions;Pinpoint accurate data and develop a process for explaining your retention of this data;Have all of the above ready to present as appropriate evidence during an audit, to protect your funding.

FacilitatorRupert Crossland, Director of Audit and Compliance, Professional Assessment Limited

Click here to find out more information or to register.

Effective Relationships for Learning
2025-04-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Overview

This webinar is part of a series of webinars focussing on pedagogy and improving Teaching & Learning. The sessions will ensure that delegates can make practical differences to their teaching immediately.

Click the links to register your interest in the rest of this series.

How to ask Great Questions to Enhance Learning

Differentiation and Inclusion

Effective relationships for Learning

Objectives

This webinar will help delegates to:

Understand the importance of positive teacher-student relationships and their impact on learning outcomes;

Identify strategies for building trust and respect in the classroom and online to foster a supportive learning environment;

Develop communication techniques that encourage open dialogue and promote student engagement;

Explore ways to create an inclusive atmosphere that values diversity and enhances collaborative learning.

Facilitator

Paul Wakeling, Education Consultant

Click here to find out more information or to register.
