Three women in a group discussing something on a computer screen. Representing the learner, the assessor and the employer in discussion about learners progress.

Assessor–Employer Relationships: How to get the most from employers to support learners

Uncategorized •

Take the Time to build good assessor-employer relationships. It will be beneficial in the long run! In work-based learning, the assessor-employer relationship can have a significant impact on learner success. When communication is strong, employers feel supported, learners receive meaningful opportunities to develop, and progress reviews become far more effective. But when expectations are unclear, […]

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Two women working together in the workplace - reading over a document together whilst sat down at a table. The woman reading the document has a red jacket and glasses. The woman listening to her has a checked shirt and curly hair.

Good Teaching in the Workplace: What It Really Looks Like for Trainers and Assessors

Good Practice, Skills & Development •

In 2010, Richard W. Leblanc outlined ten characteristics of good teaching. While originally framed in an academic context, the principles translate powerfully into workplace learning, apprenticeships, and vocational assessment. Many Assessors and Tutors don’t think of themselves as teachers – if you think about what a teacher is – someone who facilitates learning, helps others

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Two women working together both smiling at each other.

Coaching vs Mentoring in Work-Based Learning: Are You Using the Right Approach?

Good Practice •

Introduction In work-based learning, assessors and trainers wear many hats. One minute you’re checking evidence, the next you’re motivating a disengaged learner or helping someone navigate a challenge at work. Two approaches often used in these moments are coaching and mentoring – but they’re frequently confused or used interchangeably. While both are valuable, using the

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What is Universal Design for Learning and how can it help us in Adult and Workplace Education?

Good Practice •

We know that everyone learns in different ways, and there have been many theories around this from VARK (Fleming, 1987) to MBTI (Myers -Briggs, 1962). In recent years there has been a lot of debate about whether it is appropriate and correct to fit people rigidly into these boxes.   You may like these theories as

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Discover how embracing neurodiversity can transform learning and assessment with practical strategies for inclusive education.

Practical Tips for Teaching & Assessing Adult Neurodiverse Learners

Good Practice, Skills & Development •

When working with neurodiverse learners, we should embrace the idea that every brain is unique, with its own way of thinking and learning? That’s the heart of neurodiversity—recognising that our differences make us stronger. For trainers and educators, understanding neurodiversity can change the way we educate, assess and communicate with learners. Want to learn how

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Inspirational Anne named Work-based Learning Practitioner of the Year

News •

Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2024 An inspirational work-based learning practitioner, described by her employer as the “epitome of lifelong learning” has won a national award for her outstanding work. Anne Reardon-James, 46, who lives in Barry, added the Work-based Learning Practitioner of the Year award to her collection at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2024 awards ceremony

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Assertiveness written on post it notes

How to be More Assertive – A Guide for Trainers & Assessors

Good Practice, Skills & Development •

When we are assertive, we… Sounds easy doesn’t it? However, many of us struggle with being assertive due  to a lack of self confidence, being unsure how to communicate our message effectively or a fear of upsetting others. Learning how to be assertive can help us to build confidence in how we communicate with others.

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WorldSkills UK hairdressing competitor

Skills Competitions: Expectations, reality & reasons to enter

Skills & Development •

This blog focuses on my experience of attending Euroskills 2023 in Gdansk, Poland. A first for me, but it certainly won’t be my last. I will be discussing what taking part in competition is really like and what’s in it for employers and competitors. Author: Lara Baldwin, Learning Advisor, Panda Education and Training Ltd A

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