What’s all the fuss about?
Well, in 2021, the Department for Education (DfE) partnered with Ginger Nut Training to deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes. This collaboration focuses on providing employer-led, innovative apprenticeship training, with a commitment to excellence. Ginger Nut, initially an employer offering apprenticeships, has successfully transitioned into a training provider, understanding both the employer’s and the apprentice’s needs. Over the past three years, the partnership has seen rapid growth, with a flexible delivery model designed to meet the diverse needs of apprentices across the UK.
The partnership has served apprentices from various locations, offering remote training. With 265 apprentices enrolled across 12 DfE sites, this model has proven successful in delivering inclusive, high-quality training regardless of geographical constraints. The apprenticeship programme boasts a 76.4% completion rate, and 89% of apprentices are still employed by the DfE, which highlights the programme’s success and impact on social mobility. The DfE’s emphasis on training and development has made it a desirable employer, with a significant number of apprentices progressing into leadership roles.
Improved Outcomes: A Focus on Progression and Achievement
The partnership between the DfE and Ginger Nut Training has led to impressive results. DfE apprentices achieved a completion rate of 75% last year, surpassing the national average, with a 74.5% distinction rate for completers. The DfE has also exceeded its apprenticeship headcount target, reaching 6.3% compared to the Civil Service measure. Additionally, 42% of apprentices come from lower socio-economic backgrounds, surpassing government targets for social mobility. This success has earned the DfE recognition in the 2024 Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers List, ranking 70th, a 30-spot jump from the previous year. Furthermore, the DfE earned Platinum accreditation from Investors in People for their apprenticeship strategy, marking them as an exemplary employer.
Challenges Faced and Overcome
While the partnership has seen great success, it has not been without challenges. The initial impact of Covid-19 posed logistical difficulties, and the subsequent rapid growth of the apprenticeship programme required swift scalability. With DfE staff spread across multiple sites and functions, Ginger Nut had to ensure consistent service delivery and meet the unique needs of each department. Both parties maintained clear communication and adaptability, which allowed them to overcome these challenges effectively.
Innovation and Best Practices in the Apprenticeship Programme
Innovation has been a key factor in the success of this partnership. The programme has embraced flexibility in delivery, including tailored learning plans and a blended approach to training. Communication has been a standout feature, with regular briefings for line managers and a collaborative approach to managing the apprenticeship journey. The use of data and business intelligence has helped both parties make informed decisions and improve the quality of the programme continuously.
Looking Ahead: Future Goals for the Partnership
Looking forward, the partnership between the DfE and Ginger Nut Training continues to thrive. With the renewal of their contract in 2024, both organisations aim to recruit approximately 100 apprentices annually. The goal is to improve achievement rates, with targets set to increase distinctions to 80% and overall completions to 85%. The partnership remains focused on delivering high-quality training that benefits both apprentices and the DfE, continuing to create opportunities for career progression and social mobility.
The collaboration between the DfE and Ginger Nut Training has not only improved apprenticeship outcomes but has also set a new standard for employer-training provider partnerships. With their shared commitment to excellence, this partnership is poised for continued success in the years to come.
We love all our clients and work closely with everyone, but we couldn’t be more proud of this accolade, and we especially thank the DfE for making this all possible.
