More than 40 training providers from across Devon & Cornwall met at South Devon College for their first meeting of 2025.
At a busy event, opened by South Devon College Principal & CEO, Laurence Frewin, providers heard from Department for Education (DfE) colleagues, Sarah Tulk & Shona Hutton, on a range of topics, including the planned updates and changes to apprenticeships, the apprenticeship levy, the introduction of the growth & skills levy and the impact on skills and training as we wait for publication of Labour’s Industrial Strategy in the Spring.
Of particular interest, which resulted in animated discussion, was the item around the introduction of Foundation Apprenticeships, planned for later this year.Â
Providers had ample time to engage with Sarah and Shona in frank and open discussion on the planned reforms; although much is still to be confirmed, or formally announced by Ministers, consideration and planning around the changes appear to be going full-steam ahead, and the DfE are keen to hear the thoughts of industry insiders.
At a round table event as part of the morning schedule providers considered a number of key points set by the speakers. This resulted in lively debate and with some innovative suggestions being made on how things could be done better. Comments and feedback from the session have been shared with the DfE.
Dan Hallam, Head of Degree Apprenticeships at the University of Exeter, said: “DCTPN delivers again. With the upcoming changes faced by the apprenticeship sector, it was ideal to have representatives from the DfE to not only outline the headlines but to take feedback from the network.”
The opportunity for providers to engage with senior officials cannot be underestimated; being able to communicate directly to discuss evolving policy around Apprenticeships and skills, along with frank and open discussion around quality and funding is invaluable.
The DCTPN has worked hard to forge strong & positive working relationships that give our provider members access to those with responsibility for developing & implementing national policy.
Fiona Horrell, Director, Outsourcery & Board Trustee, said: “It’s fantastic to be in the same room with the DfE, and being able to work in partnership with them. Knowing that the provider voice across Devon & Cornwall is being heard is really positive.”
The event also saw a number of farewells, with Jamie Rail, retiring MD at The Focus Training Group, being recognised for his 30-plus years within the sector. Jamie was presented with an engraved glass paper weight.
Also moving onto new things are Board Trustees, Tracy Barnes who has completed eight years’ service on the Board, and Mike Jones who has competed four years’ service.
