Newbury College celebrates another year of outstanding results for our degree apprenticeships, with 100% achievement, once again. Overall, our apprenticeship achievement is 6% above National Average.
Some other key statistics:
- 44% of Level 6 (degree) apprentices were awarded a distinction, which is 10% above the national average.
- 84% of the cohort achieved a first or 2:1 with 60% of students secured a first-class degree.
This continued success reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to “careers, not courses” – preparing students for the world of work through strong employer partnerships and high-quality teaching.
While continuing to deliver excellent apprenticeship standards, the College is also preparing for upcoming national reforms. All apprenticeship starts will follow new rules that aim to simplify assessment, offer greater flexibility and reduce duplication, while maintaining rigour and quality.
These changes have been gradually rolling out and include:
A new approach to assessment – the familiar term “End Point Assessment (EPA)” will be replaced with “apprenticeship assessment”. This change acknowledges that assessment can now take place at different stages during the programme, rather than just at the end.
Shorter minimum duration – the minimum length for most apprenticeships will be reduced from 12 months to 8, helping employers respond quickly to skills needs, especially in key sectors.
Simpler off-the-job training – this will be measured by a fixed number of hours per standard, instead of a percentage of working hours. Employers will have greater flexibility to shape training around shift patterns and busy periods, provided the programme runs for at least 8 months.
Employer role in assessing behaviours – employers will now formally confirm apprentices’ behaviours – such as professionalism and teamwork – before completion.
English and maths flexibility for adult learners – for apprentices aged 19+, employers will have more discretion over whether Level 2 English and maths must be completed for the apprenticeship to be achieved, helping more adults progress in sectors such as health and social care.
New apprenticeship units – from April 2026, short, flexible training courses will be introduced to address critical skills in AI, digital and engineering, funded through the Growth and Skills Levy.
Foundation apprenticeships – a new entry-level pathway for young people has launched in key sectors, such as health, construction and digital, supported by a £3,000 employer incentive.
Our Apprenticeship Team is keeping up to date with all of these changes and ready to help you adopt and navigate them to benefit your business. Get in touch to find out how we can help This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.