Key elements to consider and steps to take when developing a new framework include:

1. Early dialogue with the FSP and submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Organisations should submit an early dialogue form to the FSP ten working days before submitting an EOI to the Apprenticeship Framework Online (AFO). We will respond to the early dialogue form, enabling developing organisations to then submit an EOI on the AFO. Once an EOI has been accepted by the FSP, the AFO will automatically generate a password for developing organisations, enabling them to progress to develop the framework.

2. Understand the Specification for Apprenticeship Standards in England (SASE) and Specification for Apprenticeship Standards in Wales (SASW)
Read the SASE and SASW to ensure that there is a comprehensive understanding of the statutory requirements of the components of an apprenticeship framework.

3. Questions to consider
What skill needs / deficiencies will the apprenticeship address?
What demand is there from learners or employers?
What existing apprenticeship frameworks may address the skill gaps?
New apprenticeships must not include a competence qualification that is used in other frameworks.

4. Follow the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils Guide
The Alliance of Sector Skills Councils and UK Commission for Employment and Skills have produced a guide for  organisations who wish to develop a framework in England or Wales. We strongly recommended this guide is consulted.

 
5. Develop a quality assurance (QA) process
The FSP will expect to see evidence that a robust QA process has been followed before issuing an apprenticeship. This evidence could include:

• An internal review, by someone other than the developer
• An external independent peer review
• Confirmation that the apprenticeship will meet a skills gap
• Verification of learner demand
• Results of a mystery shopper activity

6. Gather evidence for the Issuing Authority (IA) process
As the IA, the FSP will require a range of documents as evidence. This will support the decision making process regarding issuing a framework.

 
7. Submitting the framework to the IA via the AFO
At this point, the FSP will review the submission and the IA process will begin.

 
8. Response from the FSP
If the framework is not issued, developing organisations will be required to undertake further work to satisfy the IA guidelines. The framework will then need to be resubmitted. If the framework is issued by the FSP, an alert will automatically be sent to the SFA and DFES via the AFO to inform them that a new framework is available for consideration for funding.

 
9. Future involvement with the IA
The IA’s responsibility is not restricted to just issuing a framework. The FSP is responsible for removing frameworks from the AFO should they no longer be compliant. We encourage developers to keep an open dialogue with the FSP once a framework is issued, as this enables any queries to be addressed.

Need more help?
Benefit from the FSP's expertise and experience in developing quality apprenticeship frameworks. Our in-depth understanding of SASE and SASW, competence and knowledge qualifications, and national occupational standards makes us the ideal partner.

For further information on developing an apprenticeship framework contact Steven Poss.