The quality of Educ8 Training’s expert trainer coaches, learning opportunities, and overall workplace culture have been praised in the apprenticeship provider’s latest Estyn report.
The leading training company was inspected at the end of 2022 under the new Estyn framework, which evaluates the provider using a richer narrative, rather than applying a judgement.
The post-inspection report was overwhelmingly positive, with the quality of learners’ skills and knowledge, the trainer coaches’ delivery, and Educ8’s people-centric culture all being commended.
Kathryn Wing, Quality Director at Educ8 commented: “Notification of an inspection can sometimes bring feelings of pressure and worry. What both excited and impressed me when we received our inspection date was the overwhelming feeling of anticipation and eagerness from the whole team.
“The positive attitude that filtered throughout the organisation was down to a confidence that we are doing incredible things in the world of apprenticeships and work-based learning, and that it was an opportunity to showcase this.”
In the report, learners across Educ8’s training opportunities, which include Leadership & Management, Business Administration, Digital Marketing, Social Media, Health & Social Care, Childcare, Hair & Beauty, Equine & Animal Care, and Customer Service were found to develop and apply a wide range of relevant skills and knowledge confidently and purposefully. Learners also expressed high levels of satisfaction with their individually tailored work-based learning programmes.
Within the workplace, Educ8 apprentices are seen as “valued members of staff” who “progress to more responsible job roles and higher-level programmes”. The report also praised how Educ8 responds to the needs of its employers and the regional economy, delivering a wide range of programmes based on expertise and employer demand.
Educ8’s “skilful and knowledgeable” staff were also lauded for their relevant and up-to-date industrial experience and being able to adapt their delivery strategies to meet learners’ needs. The report highlighted how trainer coaches build relationships that foster trust and respect amongst learners, and ensure employers actively participate in the training programmes.
In addition, Educ8’s strong ethos of professional development, staff empowerment and strong commitment to employee wellbeing was found to aid the team’s ability to deliver such high-quality learning opportunities.
Kathryn continued: “We are delighted at the outcome of the report. Of course, there are things we need to improve, where we have clear plans in place to do so, but the report was a strong reflection of the commitment Educ8 has for putting learners at the heart of what we do and ensuring apprenticeships remain a fantastic way to gain and improve vocational skills.
“We are very proud of the continued hard work and dedication our staff display to our employers, our learners, and each other – they thoroughly deserve the recognition this report provides.”
To read the full Estyn report, please click here.
