Apprenticeship Workforce Development project applications open

Applications are now open for the Apprenticeship Workforce Development (AWD) programme’s practitioner improvement and collaborative project opportunities. These two types of six-month projects – undertaken either individually in the case of practitioner improvement projects, or with a minimum of three partners for the collaborative projects – provide an opportunity to explore approaches to improving the quality of apprenticeship delivery.

The projects are part of the Department for Education-funded AWD programme, which is being delivered by the Education and Training Foundation (ETF), in partnership with the Association of Colleges (AoC), Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP), Strategic Development Network (SDN) and University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC). The projects will provide a ‘safe space’ to research and experiment with new approaches and will provide the opportunity for participants to meet with like-minded colleagues and share ideas and effective practice.

All those involved in the delivery of apprenticeships are invited to apply. Successful applicants will have access to £5,000 funding for individual practitioner improvement projects, and £20,000 for collaborative projects. Throughout the projects, participants will be supported by AWD Project Mentors, who will provide advice and guidance on understanding the research and project processes, defining and setting up the project, project methodology, reporting and more.

The final deadline for project applications is 17 March, and grants will be awarded from 23 March. A project lead induction and development day will take place for successful applicants on 29 March. Participants will then have six months to complete their projects, with final reports due on 6 October.

AWD partner AELP is hosting a webinar on 28 February, 10 to 10.45 am, to share more information about these projects and how to apply – book your place now. Prospective applicants can find the application form and guidance on the AoC website. Any questions can be submitted to awd@aoc.co.uk.