Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

This guidance is for apprenticeship training providers (providers), employers, end-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) and apprentices.

It describes:

• how and when apprentices can safely train and undertake an assessment in the workplace, education and assessment settings
• the temporary flexibilities which apply during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

It should be read alongside:

• the safer working guidance
• the further education (FE) operational guidance
• the government’s coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance and support for businesses
• the apprenticeship funding rules
• the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education guidance
• the public health guidance to support exams

The aim is to help employers and apprentices start, continue and complete their apprenticeships wherever possible. Some of this guidance can be found on the apprenticeship service help page for employers, providers and assessment organisations, as well as in articles for apprentices.

On-site training and assessment

From 8 March 2021, all apprentices can attend on-site training and assessment. The only exception is apprentices in higher education (HE) who can only return to HE settings if they need practical training and access to specialist equipment and facilities.

From 17 May 2021, all apprentices in HE can return to in-person teaching and learning alongside Step 3 of the roadmap out of lockdown.

See: Providing apprenticeships during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Vocational, technical and other general qualifications in 2021 – Wales, England and Northern Ireland

Publications relating to the awarding of vocational, technical and other general qualifications in the academic year 2020 to 2021 has been updated with a 2021 student guide.

See:  Vocational, technical and other general qualifications in 2021 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)