Today, Ofqual has launched a public consultation to gather views on its proposed approach to regulating apprenticeship assessments, including those for foundation apprenticeships.
The consultation, titled “Regulatory Framework for Apprenticeship Assessment,” invites feedback from various stakeholders, including awarding organisations, colleges, training providers, employers, and apprentices.
The aim is to ensure that the future regulatory framework is effective, fair, and responsive to the evolving needs of the apprenticeship system.
Purpose and Focus of the Consultation
The new regulatory framework has been developed to align with the apprenticeship assessment principles recently published by the Department for Education. It also reflects the new apprenticeship assessment plans being introduced by Skills England.
The key goal of this consultation is to get input from those who are directly involved in apprenticeships to ensure that the framework supports the development of valid and reliable assessments.
Under the proposed framework, awarding organisations would have greater flexibility in designing, delivering, and structuring assessments. This would allow them to better respond to the specific needs of employers.
Additionally, the framework would grant awarding organisations more responsibility in making decisions about how assessments are conducted and evaluated, providing them with the freedom to tailor their approach to fit the specific needs of apprentices and employers.
Stakeholder Engagement
Catherine Large, Executive Director for Vocational and Technical Qualifications at Ofqual, emphasized the importance of this consultation, saying, “We want to hear from everyone with an interest in apprenticeships to ensure our regulatory approach is effective, proportionate, and supports the development of valid and reliable assessments.”
She further acknowledged the potential impact of changes to the current end-point assessment model and the role that employers and training providers play in shaping the future of apprenticeship assessments.
Consultation Details and Timeline
The consultation period is now open and will run from Friday, 20 June to Wednesday, 27 August 2025. Interested parties can submit their views by completing the online consultation form available on GOV.UK or by emailing their responses directly to consultations@ofqual.gov.uk.
After the consultation closes, Ofqual will analyze the feedback, publish a summary of responses, and outline the next steps for implementing the regulatory framework.
Background Information
Ofqual is the independent qualifications regulator for England, responsible for ensuring that qualifications meet high standards.
The Department for Education oversees the introduction and implementation of apprenticeship reforms, including assessment principles, while Skills England works to streamline assessment plans and ensure that employers’ views are represented in the process.
Subject to the outcome of this consultation, Ofqual plans to conduct a further consultation in 2025 to discuss the rules and guidance that will be put into effect, based on the proposed framework.
Next Steps and How to Contribute
Interested parties are encouraged to take part in the consultation to help shape the future of apprenticeship assessments. Feedback from all sectors of the apprenticeship system will be crucial in finalizing a regulatory framework that meets the needs of apprentices, employers, and the wider vocational education and training system.
