One of the hot topics which SCTP members discussed at the last SCTP members’ conference was around initial assessment and documenting prior learning. This was also a topic covered at length at recent national conferences. In line with this, a reminder that there are two new PDSAT reports (19A-211 and 19A-213) which help to identify learners that may need to be looked at. In relation to the reports, the ESFA states that providers should refer to the published guidance. This link also contains a link to contact the PDSAT helpdesk. The ESFA advise that a provider’s manager at the ESFA will not be able to answer complex queries in relation to this.
Another topic discussed at both the last SCTP members’ conference and recent national conferences is the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers (RoATP). The application guidance document that the ESFA has produced will help providers to complete the application successfully. There is a requirement with the new RoATP process to upload actual policies and processes rather than tick boxes as before. Feedback from those already having gone through the process is that it is worth looking at the guidance and your policies in advance so that you are ready when you get notified of your slot to apply.