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Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance Empowers University College Birmingham with "Understanding Apprenticeships"

The Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance is thrilled to announce the resounding success of their recent two-day event, “Understanding Apprenticeships”, held at University College Birmingham. This engaging and informative event aimed to equip University College Birmingham staff members with a deeper understanding of apprenticeships within the higher education sector.

‘We’re delighted to be working with the team at The Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance on a training programme for staff to support them in their understanding of apprenticeships and of the University’s continuing efforts to develop a diverse and robust workforce, built on values of equity and social inclusion. Alongside supporting staff in understanding the importance of working closely with employers, we hope the training will enable staff to further cement their knowledge of how apprenticeships work, particularly in regards to End Point Assessment Organisations EPAOs, compliance and regulatory responsibility, all within the context of understanding how to foster social mobility and support a wide range of people from different communities whilst addressing their needs.’

Rebecca Wilson

Rebecca Wilson
Apprenticeships Operations Manager at University College Birmingham

By partnering with the University College Birmingham, we are delighted to help and support the university in its investment in training staff and colleagues, and we are proud to support them in this initiative, enabling their colleagues to grasp the intricacies and nuances of apprenticeship programmes.

Safaraz Ali, our CEO and founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance

The event addressed a broad spectrum of topics, ensuring attendees gained a comprehensive grasp of apprenticeships, from their fundamental workings to the regulatory framework and the benefits of various learning styles. Some of these topics are:

How Apprenticeships Work and Why They Work

Attendees had the opportunity to explore the mechanics of apprenticeships, delving into why over 300,000 people each year choose to undertake an apprenticeship. Highlighting the significant role apprenticeships play in bridging the gap between education and employment.

All Matters Regulatory

An essential discussion on the regulatory landscape governing apprenticeships. Informed attendees about the compliance requirements and introduced them to the crucial role of regulatory bodies, such as Ofsted, in ensuring quality and standards.

The World of Learning

Shedding light on the diverse learning styles available, focusing on the benefits of various approaches, including blended learning. Attendees gained valuable insights into the advantages of tailoring apprenticeships to different learning preferences and needs.

The event featured two informative panel discussions with esteemed panellists from across the sector, enhancing the depth of the talks.

Quality & Assessments (End-Point Assessments and EPAOs)


This panel focused on quality assurance, assessments, and the pivotal role of End Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs) in maintaining apprenticeship standards.

Boota Singh

Boota Singh
End-Point Assessment Manager
NHS England

Jacqui Molkenthin

Jacqui Molkenthin
Specialist support for EPAOs

JEML Consulting

Cathryn Atkinson SQUARE

Cathryn Atkinson

Head of Funding Policy Strategy

Skills Education Group

Lee Reddington

Lee Reddington
Head of Transformation and Sustainability

OAL

Sharing Apprenticeship Employer Insights


Employers shared invaluable insights and experiences in the world of apprenticeships during this panel.

Suzanne Smith

Suzanne Smith
Apprenticeship Manager
Cygnet Health Care

Callum Greene

Callum Greene
Learning & Development Project Manager

Compass Group UK & Ireland

Sophie Norris

Sophie Norris

Early Careers Manager

Bentley Motors

Justine Johnson

Justine Johnson
Apprenticeship Manager

The Ladder Foundation

Barry Rotheram

Barry Rotheram
Apprenticeship & Early Careers Quality and Compliance Manager

Compass Group UK & Ireland

Steve Leek

Steve Leek
Apprenticeship Recruitment Manager
Compass Group UK & Ireland

Kasim Choudhry

Kasim Choudhry
Non-executive director, Multicultural Apprenticeship & Enterprise Ambassador
ThinkFest

The event, which drew participants from across University College Birmingham, ignited a profound interest in the world of apprenticeships and their potential for higher education. The Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance remains committed to simplifying and promoting apprenticeships, ensuring these programmes are accessible and beneficial to learners and employers alike.

For more information about the Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance and updates on upcoming events, please visit our site

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