Embracing a New Era in Education with the Labour Party

This week, our CEO and founder has written to the new Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Skills and FE minister Jacqui Smith.

At Umbrella Training, we are thrilled to announce our enthusiastic support for the new Labour Party’s ambitious education goals. With the introduction of the Growth and Skills Levy, we see a bright future for apprenticeships, Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), and pre-employment opportunities for young people. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to empower the next generation with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today’s dynamic job market.

Advocating for Essential Reforms

As we move forward, we are championing vital reforms to enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives. One of our key requests is modifying and potentially removing the Qualification Achievement Rates (QAR), which inherently create inequalities for crucial economic sectors like hospitality. We believe this change will enable a more comprehensive evaluation of apprenticeship programs, emphasizing the quality of training, positive outcomes, destinations, and the real-world skills apprentices gain.

Additionally, we are advocating for increased and fair funding for apprenticeship standards, particularly in the hospitality sector. Since 2017, our funding bands have remained unchanged, despite the hospitality industry’s significant role in our economy. This sector often struggles to secure sufficient funding for training programs. By allocating a fair funding band, we can ensure hospitality providers have the necessary resources to deliver high-quality training and support to their apprentices.

The Importance of Partial Achievement

Another key area of focus is the recognition of partial achievement in apprenticeships. In the hospitality sector, where the nature of work can be highly variable, it is essential to acknowledge the progress made by apprentices, even if they do not complete the full program. This approach not only motivates learners but also provides valuable skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace.

We are also advocating for additional flexibility in delivering functional skills training. By tailoring these programs to meet the specific needs of the hospitality sector, we can ensure that apprentices are equipped with the essential skills required to excel in their roles.

Supporting Social Mobility

We also recognise the importance of social mobility for communities that aspire to thrive in the hospitality industry. By providing equitable access to quality training and apprenticeship opportunities, we can help individuals from diverse backgrounds achieve their career goals and contribute to the growth of their communities. This focus on social mobility not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the hospitality sector by fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce.

Inspiring Leadership

Our CEO and founder, who grew up on a council estate, exemplifies the transformative power of education and training. From these humble beginnings, they have risen to lead a successful hospitality SME provider, achieving higher outcomes than competitors for both the government and taxpayers. Her journey underscores the potential for individuals from all backgrounds to excel and make significant contributions to the industry and society.

Welcoming SMEs into Government Contracts – what we love the most!

We are particularly excited about the Labour Party’s commitment to including Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in government contracts. For too long, SMEs have been overlooked in favour of larger corporations. By opening up these opportunities, we can foster innovation, drive economic growth, support localism and sector priorities, and create a more inclusive and diverse business environment.

At Umbrella Training, we are ready to collaborate with the Labour Party to turn these goals into reality. Together, we can create a robust education and training system that not only meets the needs of today’s workforce but also prepares us for the challenges of tomorrow.

Join us on this exciting journey as we work towards a brighter future for all! 🌟

Adele Oxberry - CEO and Founder of Umbrella Training

Adele Oxberry has 40 years of experience with the hospitality industry and 20 years in apprenticeships.

Adele founded Umbrella Training in 2012 a leading nationwide training and apprenticeship provider for the hospitality and corporate sectors.   

Currently a board member with Be Inclusive Hospitality.

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