QA trusted as a lead Supplier to Central Government and Public Sector for Apprenticeship Programmes

QA, the market leader in providing training and skills in the UK, is delighted to announce its successful bid to become one of the chosen suppliers of high quality, apprenticeship programmes to central government and the wider public sector.

This milestone win in a post-levy apprenticeships market saw QA effectively secure places on 12 of the 23 lots available, attaining very high scores in each area. QA will deliver apprenticeship programmes across 7 of the 12 common areas of curriculum available under the scope of the new arrangements, with a focus on digital, technology, leadership and management. This includes a large proportion of degree level programmes.  

Government is expected to invest more than ￡360m in developing the next generation of public servants, through a new Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework. “This agreement supports the government to train the next generation of public servants, who will eventually be responsible for delivering efficient, effective services that meet the needs of citizens.” Says Peter Lawson, Strategic Category Director, People Pillar at Crown Commercial Service (CCS).

A team from QA worked tenaciously and collaboratively on the tender process run by Crown Commercial Services earlier this year. It was noted that QA’s unique, high-tech, high-touch, pioneering, blended approach to apprenticeship programmes shone through as a prominent factor and subsequently saw QA land 12 of the 23 lots bid for by the learning provider.

“The win means QA are one of the 3 prime providers for Civil Service Learning and one of a select number of providers for the wider public sector in a number of significant lots. As always in such a tender, the win is huge, but QA are looking forward to delivering the world class training the Civil Service deserves.” Says Ben Pike, Director of QA Apprenticeships, commenting on the win.

“With over 30,000 apprenticeship starts expected by 2020 and much larger numbers in the wider public sector, the opportunity for success which follows an extensive tender process, verifies our focus on innovation and quality for customers across the board.” Ben Pike added.

The successful bid win will see QA, with over 30 years in delivering training and skills, provide value to the government and the wider public sector as it looks to address the talent gaps in the UK. All government agencies and departments can now procure quality apprenticeships covered under the CCS Framework Agreement through QA.