Written in partnership with Kerry Boffey, CEO & Founder of the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN).

There is a common misconception among providers that Ofsted isn’t interested in data. The truth is that it has always been interested in data. They know how you use data to drive the quality of your provision.

Ofsted will want to know how you:

• Collect data
• Analyse data
• Use data

In our eBook, we explore some of the recurring ‘areas for improvement’ on which Ofsted is focusing its inspections. It has a specific focus on how providers can pre-empt the scrutiny with relevant, actionable data collection. It offers practical insight into how Aptem, as your apprenticeship management system, can support you. We show you how our tools keep you Ofsted-ready, throughout the inspection lifecycle.

Kerry Boffey, CEO & Founder of the Fellowship of Inspection Nominees (FIN)

“As the rate of post-Covid inspections ramps up, the frequency of those being given a grade 3 or 4 is rather frightening for the sector. Why do we keep making the same mistakes? Are we not learning from the areas for improvement that are repeatedly picked up on?

My message is this: don’t wait for Ofsted to tell you that something isn’t right. It’s really important that you don’t let inspection happen to you. Instead, take a proactive approach. This requires accurate and consistent collection of data, and a mindset across the business of using this data to continually improve your provision.”

James Lett, Solutions Consultant at Aptem

“The old adage of reaping what you sow is never more relevant than in our industry. Recording the right data in your apprenticeship management system sets you up for Ofsted and ESFA inspections. It will also help you embed a culture of continuous improvement.

We spend a great deal of time working with providers to get the initial set-up correct for their business and offering. Investing in that process will help you to proactively uncover those hidden misconceptions. You’ll have data at your fingertips when the inevitable questions come.”

Not having the right data and evidence raises questions about quality and leaves providers open to Ofsted’s interpretation.

Aptem is purpose-built for compliant and efficient apprenticeship management. Implemented and used correctly, it can put you in control of your Ofsted preparedness and identify opportunities to drive quality across your provision.

Here are five common challenges that providers face, taken from FIN analysis. We offer advice on how to approach quality regulation from a data perspective.

1. Starting points and progress.
   Aptem supports through its Skills Radar and Tripartite Reviews.
2. Engagement and perception – employers and learners.
   Aptem supports through its Learning Plan and SCORM functionality.
3. Quality Assurance.
   Aptem supports through its Reviews and Quality Dashboard.
4. Retention of learners – early warning flags and interventions.
   Aptem supports through its Custom Markers and Performance Dashboard.
5. Curriculum planning – stretch, support, and personalisation.
   Aptem supports through its Learning Plan and Sub-programmes functionality.

Download the eBook to learn more about each of these areas.

Please note that certain features and functionality highlighted here are exclusive to specific Aptem packages. Please speak to your Business Development Manager, or Customer Success Manager if you are already an Aptem customer, for further information.