Hiring the right Apprenticeship Assessor, Trainer, or Coach is essential to the success of any apprenticeship programme. These professionals play a vital role in delivering high-quality training, supporting learner progression, and ensuring compliance with apprenticeship standards.

At the National Skills Agency, we specialise in connecting training providers, colleges, and employers with skilled and passionate assessors across a wide range of sectors — from Early Years and Health & Social Care to Digital, Hospitality, and Engineering.

What to Look for When Hiring

When recruiting an Assessor or Coach, consider the following:

• Occupational competence in the subject area

• Relevant qualifications (e.g. CAVA/A1, teaching qualifications)

• A strong grasp of Apprenticeship Standards and End-Point Assessment

• Excellent communication and mentoring skills

• Ability to manage caseloads and deliver timely, quality feedback

Why Work with the National Skills Agency?

We have an unrivalled network of qualified apprenticeship professionals ready to support your delivery. Whether you're hiring for a full-time, part-time, or freelance role, we help you source experienced candidates who can hit the ground running.

Let us help you recruit top-tier Apprenticeship Assessors and Trainers that drive learner outcomes and compliance forward.

Need help hiring?
Call us on 020 3953 1984 or email info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
Or access our hiring portal today.

UK Apprenticeship & Training News (June 2025)

Welcome to the June 2025 edition of the National Skills Agency Skills Bulletin, your go-to source for the latest updates across the UK’s apprenticeship, training, and awarding body landscape.

As the UK’s leading specialist recruiter for the Apprenticeship, Training, and Awarding sector, the National Skills Agency (NSA) partners with Training Providers, Employers, Colleges, and Awarding Organisations to help them attract top-tier talent.

???? Key Apprenticeship & Skills Headlines

???? £3 Billion Boost for Apprenticeships

In a major move, the UK Government has pledged a £3 billion investment to create 120,000 new apprenticeship opportunities in sectors including construction, healthcare, and engineering. This is partly funded through a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge, designed to encourage domestic skills growth.

????‍???? Foundation Apprenticeships Launched

A new stream of Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeships has been introduced, offering employers up to £2,000 per apprentice. These early-entry programmes provide learners with essential workplace experience and are expected to help bridge the national skills gap.

???? Level 7 Apprenticeship Funding Changes

From January 2026, government funding for Level 7 (Master’s level) apprenticeships will be restricted to:

• Learners aged 16–21

• Care leavers

• Individuals with an EHCP (under 25)

This policy shift is designed to redirect funds to entry-level training, although it has raised concerns among employers seeking to upskill senior staff.

???? Sector Developments & Compliance Updates

???? Transition to the Growth and Skills Levy

The Apprenticeship Levy is evolving into the Growth and Skills Levy, giving employers more flexibility to fund broader workplace learning and upskilling programmes — a welcomed change that supports long-term economic resilience.

???? Clampdown on Training Malpractice

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has conducted 35 unannounced visits to training providers in the past three months. As a result:

• 5 providers lost approval status

• 81 action points were issued
  This move underscores the need for compliance, quality assurance, and accountability in training delivery.

???? 2025–2026 Apprenticeship Funding Rules: Key Changes

The Department for Education has released updates to the Apprenticeship Funding Rules, effective August 1, 2025:

• ???? Introduction of minimum off-the-job training hours

• ???? Enhanced Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• ???? Removal of automatic part-time funding adjustments

• ???? The 20% off-the-job rule is being phased out

These changes aim to improve flexibility and ensure high-quality, learner-centred training delivery.

???? Thought Leadership: The Future of UK Skills Strategy

By Spencer Mehlman, Managing Director, National Skills Agency

“The UK’s skills landscape is evolving fast. While initiatives like Foundation Apprenticeships and the Growth and Skills Levy bring new opportunities, we must be mindful of the unintended consequences of restricting access to higher-level apprenticeships.

Training Providers, Employers, and Awarding Bodies must work collaboratively to ensure learning pathways are inclusive and future-ready.

At NSA, we remain committed to supporting the sector by placing high-calibre professionals across delivery, operations, compliance, and leadership — ensuring your organisation can continue to thrive in this changing environment.”

???? How NSA Can Help You

Whether you’re looking for an Apprenticeship Assessor, Curriculum Lead, Sales Director, or Quality Assurance Manager, we have the UK’s largest talent network in the sector.

???? Bespoke recruitment for Training Providers
???? Deep sector expertise
???? Access to 20,000+ active candidates
???? M&A advisory for education businesses

???? Contact us on 020 3953 1984 or visit www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk

In a fast-moving education and skills landscape, training providers and awarding bodies face increasing pressure to deliver exceptional results while keeping costs under control. Whether you're growing your provision, launching new qualifications, or scaling your business, the right support makes all the difference.

At the National Skills Agency (NSA), we specialise in helping organisations like yours save time, reduce recruitment costs, and access industry-leading talent and consultancy services.

Why Work with NSA?

✅ Specialist Recruitment That Delivers

As the UK’s leading recruiter in the Apprenticeship, Training, and Awarding marketplace, we have a 20,000+ candidate database and an active network of over 100,000 sector-specific LinkedIn connections. This means faster shortlists, stronger candidates, and no wasted time on generic applications.

Whether you need:

• Apprenticeship Managers

• End-Point Assessors

• Quality Leads

• Sales & Employer Engagement professionals

• Trainers & Tutors

…NSA can supply pre-qualified, highly relevant candidates, often within days.

✅ Save Time with Pre-Vetted Talent

We don’t just forward CVs. We get to know your organisation, shortlist only the best fits, and handle the heavy lifting—from initial screening to interview coordination. This allows your internal teams to focus on what matters: delivering outstanding training and learning experiences.

✅ Reduce Costs Through Smart Hiring Models

Our flexible hiring options, including Hiring Credit Packages, allow you to lock in discounted rates and gain predictability on spend. Our clients save thousands of pounds per hire compared to traditional percentage-based models.

✅ High-Level Consultancy to Accelerate Growth

Beyond recruitment, NSA offers strategic consultancy services across areas such as:

• Funding optimisation

• Skills strategy

• Bid writing

• Business development

• Mergers & acquisitions

Our experts have supported some of the UK’s top ITPs and awarding organisations, helping them grow smarter and faster.

Real Results for Real Providers

NSA has successfully partnered with leading names in the sector, supporting everything from nationwide staff rollouts to senior leadership placements and strategic planning. We're proud to have played a role in driving growth, compliance, and efficiency for dozens of respected training organisations.

Ready to Unlock Better Results?

If you’re a training provider or awarding body looking to:

• Improve hiring outcomes

• Cut unnecessary recruitment costs

• Access experienced sector consultants

Let’s have a chat. NSA is here to support your journey—whether you're hiring for one key role or scaling your business nationally.

???? Call us on 020 3953 1984
???? Or email: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk

The National Skills Agency has Expertise in Key Consultancy Areas:

In today's fluid training marketplace, organisations require strategic guidance to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. NSA is proud to offer high-level consultancy services across several critical domains, ensuring our clients are well-equipped for sustainable growth and success.

1. Skills Consultancy

We provide expert advice and tailored strategies to enhance workforce skills and performance, assisting organisations in navigating the UK's complex skills landscape.

2. Funding Optimisation

Our team supports employers and training providers in optimising available funding streams, leveraging over 30 years of experience with ESFA, Ofsted, and IfATE.

3. Knowledge Transfer

We offer comprehensive support for acquiring skills and knowledge essential for introducing new products and services, with extensive experience in managing knowledge transfers and supporting startups in scaling operations.

4. Business Development

NSA assists independent training providers and colleges in creating business development options, including total addressable market analysis and competitor profiling.

5. Bid Writing Support

Our consultants excel at winning tenders with the Department for Education, regional devolved authorities, and other funding bodies, providing clients with a competitive edge.

6. Mergers and Acquisitions

We support organisations during the due diligence process of M&A activities, offering extensive experience in assisting SMEs with divestments and acquisitions.

At NSA, we are committed to empowering your business through skills development, recruitment and strategic consultancy. Let's collaborate to unlock your organisation's full potential.

Reach out to spencer@nationalskillsagency.co.uk 020 3953 1984

We’re proud to announce that the National Skills Agency is now a Patron of AELP (Association of Employment and Learning Providers)

As the UK’s leading recruitment specialist for the Apprenticeship and Training sector, we’re passionate about supporting the organisations and people driving skills development across the country.

From recruiting expert BDM's to Curriculum Leads, Trainers, Assessors, and Apprenticeship Managers – we connect providers, colleges, and awarding bodies with the very best in the industry.

Becoming a Patron of AELP reflects our commitment to this vital sector. AELP plays a crucial role in shaping policy, championing providers, and ensuring quality across the board.

If you're not already a member, we strongly encourage you to join AELP and add your voice to the community shaping the future of skills and employment in the UK.

Together, we can keep this sector strong, future-focused, and full of opportunity.

Contact: NSA 020 3953 1984 Contact: AELP 0117 986 5389

In the competitive world of training and apprenticeships, your success is only as strong as your business development (BD) team. Whether you're an Independent Training Provider (ITP), an FE college, an Awarding Organisation, or an End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO), having experienced, target-driven sales professionals is essential for growth, employer engagement, and long-term sustainability.

At the National Skills Agency, we specialise in sourcing high-calibre sales staff for the apprenticeship and training sector. From Sales Directors to Business Development Managers (BDMs) and Sales Executives, we understand what it takes to build a top-performing sales function.

Why Sales Talent is Essential in Apprenticeship and Training Delivery

A well-rounded business development team plays a vital role in:

• Engaging employers and securing apprenticeship placements

• Promoting government-funded training programmes such as AEB, Skills Bootcamps, Multiply, and levy-funded apprenticeships

• Driving revenue and ensuring learner pipeline consistency

• Building strategic partnerships with employers across key sectors (e.g., digital, construction, healthcare, professional services)

• Navigating the complex apprenticeship levy landscape and articulating ROI to employers

Good sales staff are not just about hitting targets — they’re trusted advisors, employer engagement specialists, and champions of workforce development solutions.

What Makes a Great Apprenticeship Sales Professional?

A successful apprenticeship sales professional has a unique blend of skills, including:

• In-depth knowledge of apprenticeship standards, funding rules, and Ofsted expectations

• Proven experience in employer engagement within the education or skills sector

• Ability to identify new markets and develop employer relationships from the ground up

• Confidence in promoting training solutions tailored to business needs

• Strong commercial acumen and a passion for skills development

At NSA, we assess every candidate against these criteria, ensuring our clients only see the very best talent available in the marketplace.

NSA Recruits Across the Full Sales Spectrum

We’ve successfully placed hundreds of sales professionals in the apprenticeship and training industry. Whether you're scaling your team or making a strategic hire, we can help you recruit for roles such as:

• Sales Director / Commercial Director

• Head of Business Development

• Regional Sales Manager / National Sales Manager

• Business Development Manager (BDM)

• Sales Executive / Employer Engagement Officer

• Partnerships Manager

• Telesales & Appointment Setting Staff

We recruit across all key funding streams and delivery models – from levy-funded apprenticeships, to AEB and Skills Bootcamps, to B2B commercial training.

Why NSA is the Trusted Recruitment Partner for Sales Talent

The National Skills Agency is the UK’s leading recruiter for apprenticeship and training providers. Here’s why so many organisations trust us to build their sales teams:

 A vast network of over 20,000 sector-specific candidates
 Access to 100,000+ LinkedIn contacts within the training and education industry
 Sector-specific knowledge of ESFA compliance, Ofsted frameworks, and employer funding models
Speedy shortlisting with only pre-qualified, interview-ready candidates
 A consultative, partnership-led approach to support long-term hiring strategies

We’ve supported clients including CMI, QA, BPP, and dozens of specialist training organisations across the UK.

Looking to Hire or Get Hired in Apprenticeship Sales?

Whether you're looking to recruit a Sales Director to drive growth or need entry-level Sales Executives to generate leads, NSA has the expertise and reach to deliver. And if you're a sales professional looking to break into or progress within the apprenticeship and training sector, we can connect you with some of the UK's most respected providers.

Contact us today for a confidential conversation 020 3953 1984

Let's Drive Apprenticeship Growth Together

In a sector where employer demand, learner engagement, and funding success hinge on strong relationships, great sales staff are non-negotiable. Partner with the National Skills Agency to ensure your business development strategy is powered by the best talent in the sector.

At the National Skills Agency, we live and breathe apprenticeships and training solutions. As the UK’s leading recruitment agency for apprenticeship providers, training organisations, awarding bodies, and colleges, we know exactly how impactful high-quality work-based learning can be. In today's ever-evolving skills landscape, businesses that embrace apprenticeship programmes and invest in vocational training will lead the charge in workforce innovation and growth.

The Apprenticeship Advantage

The modern apprenticeship route is no longer a second choice to university. In fact, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective, practical, and highly valuable pathway to employment for learners of all ages. Whether it’s a Level 2 Customer Service Apprenticeship, a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship, or a Level 5 Leadership and Management Apprenticeship, the benefits are undeniable:

• Hands-on experience combined with industry-recognised qualifications

• Increased employee retention and engagement

• Tailored on-the-job training that meets employer needs

• Government apprenticeship levy funding to support development

At the NSA, we support a wide range of clients including Independent Training Providers (ITPs), FE colleges, and End-Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs) by sourcing the best talent across the training and apprenticeship sector.

Building a Stronger Workforce Through Training and Development

As industries evolve, the need for continuous professional development (CPD) and upskilling grows. That’s why forward-thinking organisations are investing heavily in training programmes, skills bootcamps, and workforce development strategies. The most successful providers are offering a mix of:

• Apprenticeship delivery across multiple sectors (e.g., healthcare, digital, construction, finance)

• Functional skills training in Maths and English

• Leadership and management qualifications

• Bespoke employer-led training solutions

We recruit top-tier talent to deliver these services, including Apprenticeship Managers, Learning and Development Consultants, Skills Coaches, Internal Quality Assurers (IQAs), and Curriculum Managers.

Recruitment Expertise in the Apprenticeships & Training Sector

At NSA, we specialise in finding the right people for the right roles. Our team works exclusively with clients in the training and education space, helping to fill critical roles such as:

• Business Development Managers – to generate new apprenticeship opportunities

• Trainers and Tutors – to deliver sector-specific training

• Apprenticeship Assessors and Coaches – to support learners through their qualifications

• Operations Managers and Directors – to oversee programme delivery and compliance

With a bespoke database of over 20,000 training sector candidates and access to 100,000+ apprenticeship professionals on LinkedIn, our recruitment reach is unmatched.

Why Choose NSA for Apprenticeship and Training Recruitment?

If you're a training provider, awarding body, or college looking to hire outstanding staff, or if you're a candidate seeking your next opportunity in the apprenticeship sector, we can help. Here's what sets us apart:

• Deep sector knowledge of the apprenticeship and skills landscape

• Proven track record placing talent across AEB, ESFA-funded, and levy-funded programmes

• Expertise in Ofsted-ready teams, learner engagement, and compliance

• A consultative approach to recruitment that aligns with your goals

We’ve successfully supported leading organisations including CMI, BPP, QA, and countless others, helping them find the right people to drive apprenticeship growth and raise training standards.

Get in Touch with the National Skills Agency

Whether you're scaling your apprenticeship delivery team, launching a new training programme, or seeking a new role within the sector, the National Skills Agency is here to help.

Call us today 020 3953 1984
Visit our website to see our latest vacancies and client services

Let’s shape the future of work-based learning, vocational education, and training excellence together.

In the highly regulated and fast-evolving world of apprenticeships, further education (FE), and training, your people are your most valuable asset.

From ensuring Ofsted readiness and ESFA compliance to driving learner achievement, the quality of your staff directly affects your outcomes, funding, and future growth.

At the National Skills Agency, we specialise exclusively in the recruitment of professionals across the training and skills landscape — helping organisations like yours attract, assess, and appoint the very best.

Why Talent is the Cornerstone of Success in Apprenticeships & FE

Whether you’re delivering:

• Apprenticeship standards
• AEB-funded programmes
• Bootcamps
• Adult Skills and Traineeships

...the success of your provision relies on your team. Hiring the right Skills Coach, Assessor, Business Development Manager, or Compliance Lead can be the difference between "good" and "outstanding".

In a sector where inspection frameworks are tightening, employer expectations are rising, and learners have more choice than ever — getting recruitment right is no longer optional.

How to Find Key Staff in the Apprenticeship & Training Sector

There are several ways providers find new talent — advertising, referrals, LinkedIn outreach, and working with specialist agencies such as National Skills Agency.

The key is to adopt a targeted and proactive approach:

1. Define your needs clearly. Is it a strategic hire or a delivery role? Full-time, part-time, remote or field-based?
2. Use job descriptions that resonate. Clear, concise, and built around your culture and mission.
3. Partner with sector specialists. Agencies like NSA who understand the nuance of ILR compliance, Ofsted prep, apprenticeship frameworks, and funding rules — generic recruiters often don’t.
4. Streamline your hiring process. Top talent moves quickly. The best protocol for hiring involve fast feedback, clear timelines, and strong candidate experience.

Why Choose the National Skills Agency?

The National Skills Agency is focused entirely on apprenticeships, training, and skills development.

What sets us apart:

• A bespoke database of over 20,000 sector professionals
• Over 100,000 industry connections on LinkedIn
• Exclusive access to passive candidates not actively applying on job boards
• Deep knowledge of the education inspection framework, ESFA funding rules, and bootcamp delivery models
• Expertise in senior hiring, including Managing Directors, Heads of Apprenticeships, and Quality & Compliance Leads
• Trusted by providers delivering everything from levy-funded apprenticeships to non-levy, commercial and bootcamp programmes

We work with some of the UK’s most respected training organisations and understand the complexity of your world — because it’s the only world we work in.

Roles We Frequently Recruit For:

• Apprenticeship Assessors & Skills Coaches
• Functional Skills Tutors
• Employer Engagement & BDMs
• Apprenticeship Managers & Operations Leads
• Funding & Compliance Specialists
• Heads of Curriculum and Quality
• Director-level Leadership

Thinking of Hiring? Start With a Conversation.

Whether you're scaling your provision, preparing for inspection, launching new standards or simply need to backfill a key post — we can help.

At the National Skills Agency, we combine sector insight with recruitment expertise to help you hire faster, smarter, and with confidence.

Call us: 020 3953 1840
Email: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
Visit: www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk

The Apprenticeship Skills Coach (sometimes called Trainer, Learning Mentor, or Development Coach) plays a critical role in guiding learners through their journey. They support, assess, and coach apprentices to ensure they stay on track to achieve their qualifications and reach their potential.

Here’s how to write a compelling job specification for this key role, based on insights from the National Skills Agency, the UK’s leading apprenticeship recruitment specialist.

What Makes a Good Skills Coach Job Spec?

The best job specs:

• Clearly state delivery method (remote, hybrid, face-to-face)

• Highlight the caseload size and sector specialism

• Define expectations around EPA preparation, coaching, and assessment

• Focus on both support and compliance

Job Title Examples

• Apprenticeship Skills Coach – Business & Management

• Development Coach | Work-Based Learning | Remote

• Learning & Development Coach – Digital Apprenticeships

Example Job Overview

We are looking for a dedicated Apprenticeship Skills Coach to support and guide learners through their apprenticeship programmes, ensuring timely progression and successful completion. You’ll be delivering tailored coaching sessions, tracking performance, and preparing learners for end-point assessment.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver one-to-one coaching and progress reviews (remote or in person)

• Track learner progress and maintain accurate records using the e-portfolio

• Support learners with their off-the-job training and EPA preparation

• Identify learner needs and provide appropriate support or referrals

• Ensure timely completions in line with funding rules

• Communicate effectively with employers and internal teams

Skills & Experience Required

• Relevant industry experience in subject area (e.g., business, care, IT)

• Assessor qualification (e.g., TAQA, CAVA, A1)

• Experience supporting apprentices in a work-based environment

• Strong understanding of apprenticeship standards and EPA processes

• Good IT skills and experience using e-portfolio systems

We’re Here to Help

At the National Skills Agency, we have a network of qualified apprenticeship coaches across the UK. Whether you’re hiring for Health & Social Care, Business, Digital, or Construction, we can support you with talent and well-crafted job specs that convert.

Contact us today: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
Visit: www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk

Hiring a strong Apprenticeship Operations Manager is vital to ensuring smooth delivery, compliance, and learner success across apprenticeship programmes. Whether you’re scaling nationally or enhancing internal quality, this role is your operational anchor.

At the National Skills Agency, we work with training providers of all sizes to help shape operations teams — starting with well-written, high-performing job specs.

Why a Clear Operations Manager Job Spec Matters

This is a senior role often responsible for:

• Performance management

• Resource allocation

• Ofsted and ESFA readiness

• Staff coordination

• Cross-team efficiency

A clear and detailed job specification helps you attract organised, high-performing candidates who can lead by example.

Job Title Examples

• Apprenticeship Operations Manager – National Delivery

• Head of Apprenticeship Operations | Remote with Travel

• Delivery & Operations Lead – Apprenticeship Programmes

Example Job Overview

We are seeking a proactive Apprenticeship Operations Manager to lead the end-to-end delivery of our apprenticeship provision. You’ll be responsible for managing performance, ensuring compliance, and supporting high-quality learner outcomes across multiple sectors and delivery models.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of apprenticeship delivery

• Line manage delivery staff, coaches, assessors, and support teams

• Monitor KPIs including learner progress, timely completions, and retention

• Ensure ESFA compliance and support Ofsted inspection readiness

• Drive continuous improvement across delivery models

• Collaborate with curriculum and quality leads

• Produce performance and progress reports for senior leadership

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in apprenticeship operations or delivery management

• Strong knowledge of ESFA funding rules and Ofsted EIF

• Confident leader with experience managing delivery teams

• Ability to interpret data and make strategic decisions

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Need Support Writing or Recruiting?

The National Skills Agency specialises in connecting training providers with experienced operations professionals who understand apprenticeship funding, inspection frameworks, and learner management. Whether you’re expanding or refining, we’ll help you get the right leadership in place.

 Get in touch: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk