Preparing for an Apprenticeship Audit
2026-01-20 10:00 - 13:00 (Europe/London) | Online
The responsibility for identifying irregularities in the claims process, in part rests with the DfEs Provider Risk and Assurance Team who have been instrumental in recovering millions of pounds from providers through the extrapolated clawback process.
In addition, the DfE 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 DfE 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;

Professionally Speaking 2026: Exploring learner behaviour and the power of physical activity
2026-01-21 16:00 - 17:30
Across all settings, behaviour remains a topic that consistently tests educators’ resilience and creativity. Low-level disruption, emotional regulation, disengagement, and the growing pressures on learner wellbeing have all been widely reported.

In Professionally Speaking 2026, we will be joined by Professor Kelly Mackintosh of Swansea University who will explore this pressing challenge and the potential role physical activity can play in supporting positive behaviour and wellbeing.

Professor Mackintosh, an expert in physical activity for health, will:

explore the evidence linking physical activity to improved behaviour and emotional regulation

share practical examples of how registrants can embed movement into the day

offer new ideas to create calmer, more inclusive, and engaging learning environments

Following the keynote presentation, attendees will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences, and put questions directly to Professor Mackintosh in a live Q&A.

Whether you work directly with learners and young people, or in a supporting or policy role, this session will provide valuable perspectives on how physical activity can contribute to positive behaviour and wellbeing across all education settings.

It promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that blends research insight with practical, real-world relevance. So don’t miss out, secure your free ticket now.

More about the speaker

Professor Kelly Mackintosh is an expert in children’s physical activity for health, with a particular focus on how schools can help young people build active, healthy habits for life.

Based at Swansea University, her research explores how physical activity can influence behaviour, well-being, and learning, and how simple, evidence-based changes within education settings can make a lasting difference.

Professor Mackintosh has led and contributed to a range of innovative projects, including the Children’s Health, Activity, and Nutrition: Get Educated! (CHANGE!) Project, which aimed to improve primary school children’s well-being through better physical activity and eating behaviours. Her work has also explored creative approaches to engaging learners, from after-school interventions that combine active video games with multi-skills training, to high-intensity, military-ethos programmes designed to boost motivation and confidence.

Working collaboratively across disciplines, she has partnered with computer scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals to develop new ways of encouraging movement, including social goal-sharing technologies in a project entitled ‘Mission Possible’ and physical activity-based interventions supporting young people with long-term health conditions such as cystic fibrosis and asthma.

Professor Mackintosh has won several awards and is recognised internationally for her contributions to physical activity research, evidenced as a top 1% researcher in her area.

Her ongoing research continues to highlight the crucial role of physical activity not just in improving health, but in supporting behaviour, focus, and overall well-being among children and young people.

Understanding 2025/26 Apprenticeship Funding Rules
2026-01-27 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
The apprenticeship funding rules and requirements are updated annually and impact on the paperwork and processes which providers need to adopt.
At this easy-to-follow seminar, which is suitable for beginners as much as it is for seasoned apprenticeship professionals, we will look the funding rules, regulations and guidance impacting on apprenticeships.
The seminar format encourages delegate participation and aims to ensure that attendees get reliable guidance and advice.
As part of the day’s agenda we will:

Ensure that your organisation has the knowledge to fully comply with the funding rules and requirements for 2025/26.
Improve your understanding of the expectations around initial assessment, programme planning, prior learning, negotiated price expectations, the adjustment of programme content and duration, the evidence pack requirements and apprenticeship audit expectations.
Discuss funding bands, the timing of payments, co-investment, incentives, learning support, care learners and English and maths.

Led by an experienced member of the Solvendis Audit, Data and Compliance team the seminar will be of particular relevance to independent training providers, employer providers, universities and colleges.

Compliant Recognition of Prior Learning and Experience
2026-01-28 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
The apprenticeship funding rules continue to focus on Recognising Prior Learning and Experience, underlining the importance of identifying learners starting points.
Our audit review work continues to identify a recurring weakness with many providers failing to fully implement the DfE funding rule requirements around negotiated price calculations and the recognition of prior learning and experience.
At this focused workshop, we will:

review DfE apprenticeship funding rules and expectations for RPLE;
Consider and identify, in a simplified form, eligible and ineligible costs and how to record them;
consider the initial assessment process and the impact prior learning and experience has on the cost, content and duration of an apprenticeship programme;
Talk through the strategies which a provider can employ to successfully implement the RPLE funding requirements.

Skills Northwest - The National Apprenticeship & Education Event
2026-01-29 09:30 - 15:00 | Aintree Racecourse, Ormskirk Rd, Liverpool L9 5AS, L9 5AS
About the event

The National Careers Event (Skills Show Northwest) in Liverpool is the perfect event for school and college students from year 10+ as well as young adults to find out more about apprenticeships at all levels as well as the educational pathways available to them.
Taking place at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool this event welcomes visitors and exhibitors from across the Northwest Region including Liverpool, Merseyside, Lancashire, Cumbria, Blackburn, Preston, Halton, Wrexham, Warrington, Chester and Blackpool.
Be there. Be inspired!
Our events bring together thousands of Students aged 15+ from schools, sixth forms & colleges, parents, guardians & individuals together with Top UK Employers, Universities, Colleges & Training Providers. Our events provide those all-important face-to-face conversations in a fun and interactive setting.
Teachers and Careers Leaders of age 15+ Students

Your students will meet businesses face to face; discover apprenticeships & how to access apprenticeship programmes as well as other career routes into work.
Your students will get up to date careers advice and guidance on a wide range of future career paths.
Your students will get the opportunity to engage with universities, colleges, top UK employers & training providers.
Your students will be able to access information on future study options.
Your students can discover career opportunities and work experience placements.

Aged 15+
Are you leaving school, sixth form or college?
What are your options?

Which University?
Do you need apprenticeship advice? Learn more about intermediate to degree level!
What’s a T-Level?
How does an apprenticeship work with a training provider?
What can the regional colleges offer you?

Parents and Guardians of a child, or children, aged 15+
Are they leaving school, sixth form or college?
Do you need to find out more about what comes next?
There’s a lot to discover – all visitors attend our regional events for FREE and get the opportunity to engage with both national and regional businesses to find out more about all career options and pathways available to them. Talks by businesses, interactive engagement like competitions, virtual reality and have a go sessions to get involved with!
General Visitors
Are you looking for a new job or training opportunity?
With over 40+ regional and national businesses at each event – find amazing job opportunities!
Exhibiting at our events
If you’re an employer or provider and would like to discuss showcasing your opportunities, then why not exhibit at one or more of our events?
Contact the Events Team exhibit@nationalapprenticeshipevents.co.uk or 0800 023 5407

AmplifyFE workshop: Smarter Careers Guidance - Connecting Learners, Education and Employers Through Immersive Technology
2026-01-30 12:00 - 13:00
Careers guidance is most effective when learners can clearly see how education, training and employment connect — yet too often these experiences sit in silos.

This webinar explores how immersive technology is enabling a smarter, more connected approach to careers guidance. We’ll look at how digital environments can bring students, education and training providers, and employers together in one shared space that supports ongoing exploration, not just one-off encounters.

The session will include:

A practical tour of CareersVerse as a working example of immersive careers guidance

Real-world insight from organisations that have created their own careers hubs

Reflections on the impact this approach is having on learner engagement, confidence and informed choices

Designed for careers leaders, educators and employer partners looking to strengthen careers provision through collaboration and innovation.

Presenters:

Julien Sample, Harlow College

Dr Majid Al-Kader, mXreality

Skills Northeast – The National Apprenticeship & Education Event – Newcastle Civic Centre
2026-02-03 09:30 - 15:00
About the event

The National Careers Event (Skills Northeast) in Newcastle, is the perfect event for school and college students from year 10+ as well as young adults to find out more about apprenticeships at all levels as well as the educational pathways available to them.
Taking place at The Civic Centre in Newcastle this event welcomes visitors and exhibitors from the Northeast Region including Newcastle, Gateshead, North & South Tyneside, Sunderland, Northumberland, Durham, Cleveland and Middlesborough.
Be there. Be inspired!
Our events bring together thousands of Students aged 15+ from schools, sixth forms & colleges, parents, guardians & individuals together with Top UK Employers, Universities, Colleges & Training Providers. Our events provide those all-important face-to-face conversations in a fun and interactive setting.
Teachers and Careers Leaders of age 15+ Students

Your students will meet businesses face to face; discover apprenticeships & how to access apprenticeship programmes as well as other career routes into work.
Your students will get up to date careers advice and guidance on a wide range of future career paths.
Your students will get the opportunity to engage with universities, colleges, top UK employers & training providers.
Your students will be able to access information on future study options.
Your students can discover career opportunities and work experience placements.

Aged 15+
Are you leaving school, sixth form or college?
What are your options?

Which University?
Do you need apprenticeship advice? Learn more about intermediate to degree level!
What’s a T-Level?
How does an apprenticeship work with a training provider?
What can the regional colleges offer you?

Parents and Guardians of a child, or children, aged 15+
Are they leaving school, sixth form or college?
Do you need to find out more about what comes next?
There’s a lot to discover – all visitors attend our regional events for FREE and get the opportunity to engage with both national and regional businesses to find out more about all career options and pathways available to them. Talks by businesses, interactive engagement like competitions, virtual reality and have a go sessions to get involved with!
General Visitors
Are you looking for a new job or training opportunity?
With over 40+ regional and national businesses at each event – find amazing job opportunities!
Exhibiting at our events
If you’re an employer or provider and would like to discuss showcasing your opportunities, then why not exhibit at one or more of our events?
Contact the Events Team exhibit@nationalapprenticeshipevents.co.uk or 0800 023 5407

AmplifyFE webinar: Unlocking Creativity in Lesson Design with AI Tools
2026-02-06 13:30 - 14:00
Explore how free AI platforms like Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and NotebookLM can empower educators to design more creative and dynamic lesson resources. This session will introduce practical ways to integrate these tools into your teaching workflow, helping you save time and spark innovation in the classroom.

Skills Cymru / Wales - The National Apprenticeship & Education Event
2026-02-10 09:30 - 15:00 | Cardiff City Stadium, Leckwith Rd, Cardiff, CF11 8AZ
About the event

The National Careers Event (Skills Show Wales) in Cardiff, is the perfect event for school and college students from year 10+ as well as young adults to find out more about apprenticeships at all levels as well as the educational pathways available to them.

Taking place at Cardiff City Stadium (Cardiff City FC) in Cardiff this event welcomes visitors and exhibitors from the Wales Region including all of Wales, Bangor, Cardiff, Newport, St Asaph, St Davids, Swansea, and Wrexham.

Be there. Be inspired!

Our events bring together thousands of Students aged 15+ from schools, sixth forms & colleges, parents, guardians & individuals together with Top UK Employers, Universities, Colleges & Training Providers. Our events provide those all-important face-to-face conversations in a fun and interactive setting.

Teachers and Careers Leaders of age 15+ Students

Your students will meet businesses face to face; discover apprenticeships & how to access apprenticeship programmes as well as other career routes into work.

Your students will get up to date careers advice and guidance on a wide range of future career paths.

Your students will get the opportunity to engage with universities, colleges, top UK employers & training providers.

Your students will be able to access information on future study options.

Your students can discover career opportunities and work experience placements.

Aged 15+

Are you leaving school, sixth form or college?

What are your options?

Which University?

Do you need apprenticeship advice? Learn more about intermediate to degree level!

What’s a T-Level?

How does an apprenticeship work with a training provider?

What can the regional colleges offer you?

Parents and Guardians of a child, or children, aged 15+

Are they leaving school, sixth form or college?

Do you need to find out more about what comes next?

There’s a lot to discover – all visitors attend our regional events for FREE and get the opportunity to engage with both national and regional businesses to find out more about all career options and pathways available to them. Talks by businesses, interactive engagement like competitions, virtual reality and have a go sessions to get involved with!

General Visitors

Are you looking for a new job or training opportunity?

With over 40+ regional and national businesses at each event – find amazing job opportunities!

Exhibiting at our events

If you’re an employer or provider and would like to discuss showcasing your opportunities, then why not exhibit at one or more of our events?

Contact the Events Team exhibit@nationalapprenticeshipevents.co.uk or 0800 023 5407

Governance – Establishing an Effective Board
2026-02-12 10:00 - 12:30 | Online
Ineffective governance has been one of the most commonly occurring Ofsted criticisms of providers deemed to be ‘Inadequate’ or who ‘Require Improvement’.
At this important workshop delegates will consider:

the different models of governance that exist in Post-16 education
the traits of an effective board
terms of reference, agenda and the importance of good minute writing
the importance of independent scrutiny challenge and support
how you ensure that your Board has the right skills/knowledge mix

The seminar is for apprenticeship and other education and skills providers who are looking to establish (or re-establish) an effective governing board. As part of the resource pack, delegates will be given a draft terms of reference, a skills matrix tool and a minuting template.
The focus of the seminar will be on the governance of training providers delivering apprenticeship and other DfE funded activity.

Understanding Motivation – Unlocking Performance Through Motivational Mapping
2026-02-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Unlock the secrets behind what truly drives people to perform at their best. This interactive webinar (part 1 of the Creating a Culture Where Staff Thrive Series) invites you to explore your own motivational drivers and assess how well they’re being met—an essential step in boosting your energy, engagement, and effectiveness at work.

Designed for leaders and managers at any level, the session offers powerful insights into how motivation influences engagement, performance, and wellbeing across teams and organisations.
Drawing on the principles of Motivational Mapping, you’ll discover the diverse motivators that shape behaviour and success, and how these differ from person to person. Through guided reflection, group discussion, and practical exercises, you will:
• Understand what sparks motivation for you and your team
• Explore how motivation links to productivity, culture, and retention
• Identify signs of low motivation—and what to do about it
• Learn how to interpret motivational profiles and spot potential motivational conflicts
• Use motivational insights to enhance leadership style, communication, and team alignment

By the end of the session, you’ll be equipped with practical tools to cultivate more energised, purpose-driven teams where people feel valued, inspired, and able to thrive. Whether you’re looking to elevate your own performance or unlock the potential of those you lead, this webinar will give you the clarity and confidence to create a workplace where motivation fuels excellence and sustainable organisational growth.

Effective use of PDSAT and Monitoring Reports
2026-02-17 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
The DfE provide a suite of tools and reports to allow providers to conduct regular assurance and data checks to ensure they meet the funding rules and rectify anomalies in the ILR data
At this seminar, we will look in detail at the new Provider Data Self-Assessment Toolkit (PDSAT) Online Toolkit, Funding Information System (FIS) and key submission reports
The seminar will explain how the Provider Market Oversight Assurance (PMOA) team utilises PDSAT reports, along with how providers should use them in preparing for a PMOA assurance review
The seminar will provide reliable guidance and advice in the planning and usage of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports in your ongoing internal assurance reviews
The seminar format encourages delegate participation and aims to ensure that attendees get reliable guidance and advice in the planning and usage of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports in your ongoing internal assurance reviews.
As part of the day’s agenda we will:

ensure that your organisation has the knowledge to ensure full understanding of the PDSAT, FIS, FRM and submission reports for the academic year.
improve your understanding of the expectations around the tools and reports available to ensure appropriate control mechanisms are in place to provide assurance on your ILR data.
identify key submission reports and how to use them effectively, including the suite of FRM reports and any recent changes.
Provide guidance on the correction of data errors.

Fraud Awareness Training (For Staff in Education)
2026-02-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
The Governments’ Counter Fraud Strategy and DfE Provider Financial Handbook require providers to ensure that there is a level of fraud awareness across the organisation. In this engaging workshop, with content written specifically for Post-16 training providers, we will:

Consider the guidance which providers are being required to follow
Discuss the impact on roles right across the organisation
Share examples of wrong-doing/ irregularity which have occurred in our sector and what we can learn from them
Consider some of the practical steps we can take to increase our level of protection
Discuss how we can embed fraud awareness into apprentice/ learner engagement thus strengthening learner personal development

Level 3 Award in Education and Training (Fast Track)
2026-02-23 10:00 - 2026-03-10 12:00 | Online
We are pleased to be able to offer an effective response to the need to develop the teaching and training skills of staff working in Post-16 education.
The programme will focus on those aspects of training so essential in ensuring sound learning. Participants will benefit from a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders in the education and training sector. They will develop their teaching and training skills through a clear understanding of inclusive teaching and learning, and be able to plan, deliver and evaluate learning which meets the needs of all learners.
Participants attend for 4 workshop days, which include a microteach, and assignment completion. Assessment will be via portfolio, assignment and observation.
Dates of attendance are 23 & 24 February and 9 & 10 March 2026 (all days 10.00 – 4.00).
Delegate fee £455 (plus vat) plus £62 awarding body registration fee – maximum delegate number 12.

Safer Recruitment in Apprenticeship and Post-16 Settings
2026-02-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Effective Safeguarding arrangements must embrace the importance of a Safer Recruitment Strategy/Policy and the need to ensure the implementation of that policy when recruiting.
The purpose of the Safer Recruitment Policy is to ensure that applicants who are at risk of abusing children and vulnerable adults are identified and rejected at the application stage.
At this important workshop we will focus on:

the development of an appropriate Safer Recruitment Policy for Apprenticeship and Post-16 providers
the role and responsibilities of the Board, Senior Staff and the DSL for establishing compliant procedures
the establishment of an effective selection and induction process
Ofsted’s expectations of providers and how providers should be responding
Disclosure and Barring Service requirements and the relevance of a Single Central Register

Governance – Effective Board Reporting
2026-02-24 10:00 - 12:30 | Online
Ineffective governance has been one of the most commonly occurring Ofsted criticisms of providers deemed to be ‘Inadequate’ or who ‘Require Improvement’.
At this important workshop we will look at Board reporting and how to ensure its effectiveness, including:

the Solvendis ‘What, When and Why Guide to Board Reporting’ for an apprenticeship provider
the importance of KPIs in the Board reporting process
striking the balance between too much and too little detail
the importance of reporting trends and not merely numbers to the Board
the use of slide decks as a means of sharing key performance updates

For providers looking to establish (or re-establish) a new Board, it is suggested that delegates attend our workshop on ‘Establishing an Effective Board’ before attending this workshop.

Preparing for an Ofsted Inspection (new framework)
2026-02-24 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
This seminar will have new content which focuses on the revised expectations of Providers arising out of the implementation of Ofsted’s new inspection framework.
New style inspections will commence at the beginning of November, incorporating report cards and a revised grading structure.
The guidance given in the seminar will be inciteful and will reflect both inspector training and early inspection involvement.

Effective Apprenticeship Progress Reviews
2026-02-24 14:00 - 16:00 | Online
The essential requirements for an apprenticeship, at any level, include the need for high quality Progress Reviews. Not only are they a contractual requirement, but Progress Reviews also support the effective measurement of progress through the curriculum.
This event will help providers, especially those responsible for curriculum quality/quality of education to understand what is required and why.
Clear links between the importance of measuring apprentices progress and the
requirements of Ofsted and the DfE are explored and explained, helping you to focus on delivering high quality education.
Key Outcomes Of The Day
At this important workshop delegates will explore and discuss:

What is ‘Progress’?
What is the purpose of a Progress Review?
What does an effective Progress Review look like?
What to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of Progress Reviews
How the the inspection framework and Quality of Education link to effective Progress Reviews
Understanding the link between apprentices starting points and recognising progress.
Using Progress Reviews to support apprentices progress, using effective target setting

Apprenticeship compliance fundamentals and what this means for your role
2026-02-25 14:00 - 2026-03-10 12:00 | Online
Everyone involved in apprenticeship delivery should understand the fundamentals of apprenticeship compliance.

Whether you’re involved in training, curriculum design, quality assurance, employer engagement or administration – understanding what ESFA compliance means for your role is crucial in helping the organisation to draw down the right funding and mitigate risks.
Designed around the latest version of the funding rules, this three-part series is designed to introduce all apprenticeship staff to the core apprenticeship rules and where their role fits in the compliance journey.
Part 1 will look at the typical apprentice journey, the core rules that matter and common solutions seen, including the importance of the little details and core parts of the evidence pack.
Part 2 will look at common errors and build an understanding of risk awareness as part of a transparent compliance culture.
Part 3 will open the floor to core questions and discussions of best practice.
You will receive an attendance certificate after the series, as evidence of your personal development.

This series will help you to:

Understand the core compliance rules for Apprenticeships
Understand how they fit into the typical apprentice journey
Know how funding works and what this means for your role
Keep an eye out for common errors
How to mitigate funding risks

About your session

David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s funding and compliance specialist will facilitate this session.

After working in the sector for over 25 years, David has supported hundreds of providers to establish effective compliance systems. His in-depth understanding of funding and wider apprenticeship delivery gives him a unique insight into compliance across the organisation.
SDN’s CPD is drawn from its work with over 1,000 apprenticeship providers and thousands of staff – giving you a unique insights into practices that can drive the quality of your provision. Our sessions are also intensely practical – equipping you with the knowledge and resources to act and make improvements in your role and organisation.

Perfect for new starts across all departments as well as those requiring a refresher, this is designed for all staff involved in administrating or delivering apprenticeships so they can develop a healthy understanding of compliance and how it relates to their job role.

Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement
2026-02-26 10:00 - 2026-03-03 16:00 | Online
This Level 3 accredited qualification is designed to develop delegates practical assessing skills helping them to become effective assessors in a range of Post-16 contexts both in the workplace and in the classroom.
We anticipate that delegates will already be working in post-16 education as a teacher/ trainer/assessor or coach. Delegates may have a strong vocational background and will have moved into teaching/ assessing as a secondary career.
Through participation in this important strand of the Solvendis Teaching Excellence programme you will complete three modules to help you develop and craft your assessment skills.
Delivery will be led by an experienced member of the Solvendis Teacher Training Team with all workshops being conducted online via Teams or Zoom.
Workshop Dates and Times: 26 Feb & 3 March 2026 (10.00 – 4.00 online).
Delegate fee £455 (plus vat) plus £78 awarding body registration fee – maximum 12 delegates.

Higher Level Learning in Safeguarding and Prevent (4.0)
2026-03-05 10:00 - 16:00 | Online
The Solvendis Higher Level Learning programme in Safeguarding & Prevent will be of interest and of practical use to Designated Safeguarding Leads and to staff who have a particular responsibility for ensuring the safeguarding and well-being of their learners.
Attendance at this high-level workshop will further develop the knowledge and skills of those staff in the FE and Skills sector with significant safeguarding responsibilities. The Solvendis programme will focus on those issues most likely to affect learners in the post-compulsory education sector.
Following participation in this programme, delegates will:

be confident in what effective internal reporting should look like and the importance of the interface with governance
understand, and thus help to overcome, factors which may inhibit the disclosure of abuse
understand the relevance and applicability of key documents to adults in training and skills settings
be confident in conducting risk assessment on those who are not required to hold DBS checks
reflect on themes from case reviews and consider how this learning can inform their organisation’s procedures
consider a range of safeguarding-related learning resources for use with learners, staff and those responsible for governance
understand the importance of the role of DSL in relation to improving adult learner outcomes

The session will invite consideration of a range of safeguarding related responses drawn from the wide inspection and governance experience of the Solvendis team and examples of good practice arising from these responses. As a result, delegates will be confident in constructing a clear action plan to ensure an excellent safeguarding culture in their organisation.

Strategic Management and the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework
2026-03-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Understanding performance, risk and accountability following the 2026 updates.

All apprenticeship providers are monitored, measured and held accountable through their performance against the indicators within the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework. These measures play a critical role in how provider performance is viewed by the Department for Education and directly influence accountability, funding confidence and an organisation’s ability to continue to deliver apprenticeships in the future.
For governors, leaders and senior managers, understanding how these indicators are constructed, what data sits behind them, and how they are used is essential. The framework is not simply a compliance tool, it is a core mechanism for assessing organisational health, identifying risk, and supporting effective strategic decision-making and long-term sustainability.
Following the introduction of updated accountability indicators from January 2026, providers now need to revisit how they interpret performance data, monitor minimum thresholds, and use this information to inform governance oversight and strategic planning. While the accountability measures set out the minimum expectations providers must meet, strong organisations will go further, using the framework to understand emerging risks, protect revenue, and improve delivery efficiency.
This two-hour deep-dive session will support participants to develop a confident, practical understanding of the updated Apprenticeship Accountability Framework and how it can be used effectively at both the leadership and governance level.

During the session, we’ll look at:

What the 2026 accountability metrics are and how they are used
How to interpret and contextualise accountability data effectively
Approaches to benchmarking performance using national data
How to forecast risk and monitor improvement at the leadership and board level
How to plan, prioritise and implement proportionate improvement actions

About your session

David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s compliance specialist 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.

This session is suitable for Governors, leaders, managers and senior delivery staff involved in apprenticeship provision.

“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.

Designing EDI 2.0: a practical guide for today's employers
2026-03-10 12:00 - 14:00 | Online
Keen to in-bed equality, diversity and inclusion in company policies?

Join a free online workshop being hosted by City of Wolverhampton College, on Tuesday, 10 March.

The interactive session is aimed at employers who have limited knowledge of equality, diversity or inclusion, are uncertain how inclusion fits into their business priorities, and want a practical, commercially-focussed approach that will align with their business goals and workforce needs.

The workshop will help employers identify their current level of knowledge, understand what EDI 2.0 means in the business landscape, learn how to embed inclusion in everyday operations and decision making, and build a simple and effective 90-day plan.

Participants will also gain an understanding of what modern, business-aligned inclusion looks like, explore why inclusion continues to matter in a world shaped by AI, automation and skills shortages, and how they can build the capability needed to attract, retain and grow talent.

The session runs from 12pm to 2pm and will be delivered by Sally Spicer, co-founder of Talent Included, an organisation which helps organisations to design and deliver high-performing and equitable workforce solutions.

Book a place on the workshop at www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/events/

Level 4 Award in the IQA of Assessment Processes and Practice
2026-03-12 10:00 - 2026-03-19 16:00 | Online
This Level 4 accredited qualification is designed to develop delegates practical quality assurance skills helping them to become effective quality assurance practitioners in a range of Post-16 contexts both in the workplace and in the classroom. This course covers both ‘Internal Quality Assurance’ and has an option for a top-up for ‘Lead Quality Assurance’ roles. We anticipate that delegates will already be working in post-16 education as a teacher/ trainer/assessor or coach. Delegates may have a strong vocational background and some will have moved into teaching/ assessing as a secondary career.

Through participation in this important strand of the Solvendis Teaching Excellence programme you will complete two modules to help you develop and craft your assessment skills. These modules require 2 days of taught sessions and then for delegates to gather evidence from their own professional practice before returning to a 1:1 portfolio review.

Total attendance time is 2 days of delivery and then a separate 1:1 session once all evidence has been gathered and submitted.
All delegates must have access to a suitably qualified mentor who can offer advice, support and guidance during the practical application and portfolio creation.

Dates and times are as follows:

12 & 19 March 2026 (10.00 – 4.00 online)

Level 4 Certificate in Leading the IQA of Assessment Processes and Practice
2026-03-12 10:00 - 2026-03-26 16:00 | Online
This Level 4 accredited qualification is designed to develop delegates practical quality assurance skills helping them to become effective quality assurance practitioners in a range of Post-16 contexts both in the workplace and in the classroom. This course covers both ‘Internal Quality Assurance’ and ‘Lead Quality Assurance’ roles.

We anticipate that delegates will already be working in post-16 education as a teacher/ trainer/assessor or coach. Delegates may have a strong vocational background and some will have moved into teaching/ assessing as a secondary career.

Through participation in this important strand of the Solvendis Teaching Excellence programme you will complete three modules to help you develop and craft your assessment skills. These modules require 3 days of taught sessions and then for delegates to gather evidence from their own professional practice before returning to a 1:1 portfolio review.

Delivery is made up of 3 mandatory modules as follows:

Understanding the Principles and Practices of Internally Assuring the Quality of
Assessment
Internally Assure the Quality of Assessment
Plan, allocate and Monitor Work in Own Area of Responsibility

Total attendance time is 3 days of delivery and then a separate 1:1 session once all evidence has been gathered and submitted.
All delegates must have access to a suitably qualified mentor who can offer advice, support and guidance during the practical application and portfolio creation.

Dates and Times of attendance:

12, 19 & 26 March 2026 (all days 10.00 – 4.00)

Designated Safeguarding Lead Training
2026-03-16 10:00 - 16:00 | Online
A provider’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) plays a critical role in its approach to safeguarding its learners, training its staff, providing support and guidance and taking responsibility for referral decisions – as well as dealing with Ofsted! Although legislation focuses on the protection of children and vulnerable adults, providers have a responsibility to protect all learners.
This course will provide information about what the role involves and is designed for staff new to the role and for those wanting to update their knowledge. It includes direct delivery and a range of scenario-based activities to consider.
Key outcomes of the day:

Understand the implications of Keeping Children Safe in Education and revised Ofsted expectations
Know the likely roles of the Designated Safeguarding Lead
Be able to recognise and respond to disclosures sensitively and efficiently
Know how and when to share information with other organisations
Implementing safer recruitment strategies including the use of DBS checks
Know how to deal with allegations that involve staff
Know the key policies, statute and inspection guidance that underpin the Prevent duty
Making referrals under the Prevent Duty

The programme will be delivered by a member of the Solvendis Quality Improvement and Inspection Team and serving inspector.
All delegates will receive a Solvendis certificate of attendance which documents the training content.

VocTech, skills and the future of work
2026-03-16 12:30 - 13:15 | Online
Kick off the Week of VocTech 2026 with a behind-the-scenes conversation with the Ufi VocTech Trust Board of Trustees.

In this live online session, Ufi Trustees will share insights gained from working at the cutting edge of technology, investment, education, workforce development and inclusion. Each Trustee brings a deep, real‑world perspective shaped by careers spanning FE leadership, EdTech innovation, commercial strategy, investment management, diversity and inclusion, and global skills policy.

Bringing candid reflections, practical experience and big‑picture thinking, they’ll explore:

What’s really changing in the UK’s skills landscape – and why it matters now

Insights from Ufi’s work and investments – what’s working, where the sector is heading, and what still needs to shift

How vocational technology can catalyse a more inclusive, thriving future for learners, employers and communities

Whether you’re a provider, policymaker, employer, innovator or funder, this session will help you understand the forces reshaping adult learning – and the role you can play in driving meaningful change.

Join us online as we open the Week of VocTech with energy, insight and a fresh look at the future of skills in the UK.

What next for AmplifyFE and ALT?
2026-03-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
AmplifyFE connects 3,500+ professionals in Further Education and Vocational Education. Since 2020, our network links communities of practice for digital learning, teaching and assessment.

Our network enables vocational teaching staff to acquire, develop and share the digital and digital pedagogical skills they need, with the ultimate aim of catalysing change across the UK so that significant scale can be achieved in digital vocational learning for adults.

Come along and find out:

how to engage with the AmplifyFE community

the benefits of CMALT accreditation for professional development

how to get your initiative on the UK map and much more.

This is an online interactive session chaired by Joe Wilson, Trustee of the Association for Learning Technology (ALT), Educational Consultant and former Head of Digital Skills at City of Glasgow College.

To find out more about the work of AmplifyFE, explore their latest impact report at amplifyfe.alt.ac.uk/explore-the-2025-impact-report.

Rethinking work readiness: Using VocTech to assess essential skills
2026-03-16 15:00 - 16:00
Recent CIPD research (December 2024) highlights a persistent skills gap among young people entering employment, with only 28% of employers reporting that newly recruited young people are prepared for the world of work. Communication, collaboration and social interaction are critical to success, yet remain difficult to assess using traditional approaches.

As part of the Week of VocTech, this session will explore how vocational technology can enable more authentic, inclusive and scalable assessment of essential skills.

Hosted by NCFE, the session will draw on current research alongside learning from NCFE and Ufi’s Assessment Innovation Fund (AIF) projects. The AIF supports organisations to test and evaluate innovative approaches to assessment, building an evidence base for system-wide improvement. You can find out more about the pilots here: www.ncfe.org.uk/aif-pilots.

Together, we will explore:

the competencies that underpin workplace readiness across secondary and further education

how VocTech can support more valid, learner-centred assessment models

practical insights on implementation, scalability and impact from live innovation projects

This session is aimed at awarding bodies, EdTech organisations, providers and policy stakeholders seeking to modernise assessment in ways that are fair, robust and aligned to the realities of work.
