Apprenticeships highly rated by education watchdog

The University of East London has been praised across the board for its apprenticeship provision after a recent inspection by the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted), the government’s education watchdog. 

Ofsted gave its second-highest ranking – good - to a range of attributes of UEL’s many earn-while-you-learn courses. They include the quality of education, personal development, leadership and management and the apprenticeship courses themselves.

In its report, Ofsted inspectors noted that UEL's apprentices highly valued their training for opening up career opportunities that they had previously considered unattainable. The apprentices’ commitment to their studies and attendance record were evidence of their dedication.

The report noted that the University offered an environment that genuinely cared about the students’ progress. It was created by a supportive and knowledgeable teaching staff and workplace managers who provide apprentices with the guidance and encouragement they need. It said, 

Many apprentices do not have the conventional academic background to go on to higher level courses. These apprentices benefit enormously from the focus that leaders have on creating routes to education for them. 

For example, leaders offer a pathway in the civil engineering apprenticeship which is open to apprentices who do not already hold A-level mathematics. People who work locally in NHS trusts as healthcare assistants can go onto apprenticeships as nursing associates and registered nurses because of the strong links that leaders have with those trusts. 

As a result, these apprentices embark on careers which they previously did not think were possible.

The inspectors highlighted that apprentices were offered the same support and enriching experiences as UEL’s other undergraduate and postgraduate students. From hackathons for digital and technology solutions students to residential trips for civil engineers, these opportunities fostered confidence and resilience while integrating apprentices into the vibrant university community. 

The report said, “A high proportion of apprentices with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) make good progress and achieve their apprenticeship standards.” 

Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University, welcomed the findings. She said,

This recognition reaffirms our unwavering commitment to apprenticeships as an integral part of the University of East London’s careers-first approach. 

We are dedicated to nurturing the potential of every individual and providing accessible pathways to success. We are delighted that Ofsted have recognised both the quality of delivery and our aspiration to make apprenticeship accessible.

At UEL, apprenticeships are not just a programme; they are a promise of transformation, empowering our learners to reach new heights in their careers.”

Dean of the School of Education and the Communities, Mr Richard Harty said, 

The recognition from Ofsted underscores our dedication to creating positive impacts in our communities. In areas such as nursing, for example, we train individuals who then work in enhanced roles within the local NHS.