APAR – Apprenticeship Providers and Assessment Register

What Led to the Apprenticeship Providers Register Consolidation?

In May 2023, the UK government announced a consolidated register: The Apprenticeship Providers and Assessment Register (APAR). This aims to streamline oversight of the sector. APAR is a combination of two existing registers – the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers (RoATP) and the End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) register.

What is APAR?

APAR is a list of training provider organisations, including; independent training providers, colleges, universities and employer providers, who are approved to deliver apprenticeship training, funded by the government.

What is the difference between RoATP and APAR

RoATP: Register for apprenticeship training providers ONLY.

APAR: Consolidated register covering training providers and EPAs. It has stricter standards and oversight but this also means it has a higher admin cost. It also aims to improve program transparency for employers.

What Learnings Can Guide Quality Improvements Post-Transition?

Now beyond the initial consolidation hurdle, gathering rapid feedback informs fine-tuning the integration. Checking program delivery continuity, employer satisfaction and apprentice support spots gaps. Review bodies should assess if updated rules elevate provider capabilities at reasonable trade-offs to access.

What Apprentice Experience Impacts Need Monitoring?

While qualifications stay consistent, provider churn could affect program availability. This impacts apprentice career paths. Keeping open feedback channels through turbulence is vital. Maintaining teaching standards matters for skills acquisition.