The Customer
Future Strategies Consulting (FSC) is a training and qualification provider. It delivers tailor-made training packages, from HR consultancy to Essential Skills, and has over 500 clients in north-east England and Yorkshire.
The Challenge
FSC set out to establish flexible and responsive qualifications, so it could respond quickly to changes in national policy. Having the latest up-to-date information on policy and funding was a must for FSC in order for it to develop and continue to grow despite the difficult economic conditions.
FSC wanted to offer qualifications with the clear learner progression routes that are demanded by employers and that give learners the option to move clearly from entry level through to higher qualifications.
The Solution
Pearson Work Based Learning worked closely with FSC to establish its exact requirements, and delivered a suite of flexible Edexcel qualifications personalised to the needs of FSC’s employers and learners.
Vocational training was selected for delivery because employers benefit from minimal disruption to work and learners enjoy the flexibility of learning.
More than 1,200 of FSC’s learners undertake a range of work-based learning courses - including BTEC Apprenticeships, BTEC Advanced Apprenticeships, NVQs, Skills for Life, key skills and Distance Learning Programmes - across a range of subjects, including Health and Social Care, Support Services, Customer Services, Business Administration, and Information, Advice and Guidance.
FSC’s Lead Internal Verifier and Quality Team Coach, Lesley Hetherington, said: “We selected Edexcel’s qualifications because of their high standards and quality reputation. Edexcel offered us clear pathways for vocational learners and opportunities to develop new skills and careers.”
The Outcome
The results are impressive, with Apprenticeship achievement rates at 76% and NVQs at 94.9% – both an increase on last year and higher than the national average.
“Pearson Work Based Learning keep us up to date with changing national and local strategic priorities, enabling us to respond quickly when policy changes occur,” said Lesley.
“We’ve established a good working relationship with Pearson Work Based Learning. We’ve had fantastic support since we have worked together, with regular access to standards verifiers who advise and support each qualification, and we’ve had frequent contact with our dedicated account manager.”