Apprenticeships under scrutiny by BBC Panorama

BBC Panorama found that nearly £250m worth of contracts went to large subcontractors in 2011 which have not been inspected by Ofsted.

In some cases, private providers had been putting candidates through apprenticeships in just 14-weeks. The BBC reports that is due to a loophole in the training scheme that doesn’t see regular inspections by Ofsted of sub-contractors, that are commissioned by colleges in order to keep up with the rise in demand for apprenticeship programmes.

The Chief Executive of the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS), David Way, commented on their website, “We are clear that all Apprenticeships should offer employment, new learning and a nationally recognised qualification and where apprentices have been let down this isn’t good enough. I would urge anybody in this situation to contact us”.

Some of the apprenticeship providers in question were to achieve construction-industry related qualifications.

BWF Marketing & Training Manager, Dave Campbell, commented, “It is appalling that these unscrupulous providers are failing both learners and employers, and it is clear that the government needs to act quickly to address the issues identified and close any loopholes on inspection to maintain quality assurance.

We must remember that the vast majority of providers deliver a robust and quality training package for apprentices, but I would urge potential learners and employers to run background checks on providers and gain references. Joinery employers are welcome to consult the BWF when choosing either a college or training provider to ensure they get the best for them and their learners”.

The BWF works with a specialist woodworking private training provider to deliver its training services (Didac Ltd) that is inspected by Ofsted, ensuring that companies accessing training through the BWF receive the highest quality and standard of provision.