OAL: Ten Years of Excellence in Apprenticeships and Skills Development

A Vision for Change and a Commitment to Innovation

“We strive to elevate the value and recognition of Apprenticeships and empower apprentices to enhance their employability in today’s competitive job market. We’re committed to creating a lasting social impact, ensuring that apprentices from all backgrounds and circumstances can benefit from the opportunity that apprenticeships provide”. – Jan Richardson-Wilde FIEP , CEO, Occupational Awards Limited

Established as an Ofqual regulated AO in 2015, Occupational Awards Limited (OAL) has made a lasting impact on the UK’s skills and apprenticeship sector. From the outset, OALs goal has been to provide high-quality assessments and qualifications that meet industry demands.

Supporting learners, training providers, and employers across various industries. OAL continually invests in new tools and resources to improve the assessment experience. By integrating digital solutions and refining processes, OAL ensures that apprentices, employers, and training providers benefit from a streamlined and effective system. Their commitment to technological advancements keeps OAL at the forefront of the skills development sector.

“Having used multiple different EPAO’s since the inception of Apprenticeship Standards finding an organisation who embraced the same values as TACS was imperative. OAL work with us as a true partner, their responsiveness and flexibility have allowed us to meet the needs of apprentices and clients.  The professionalism and approachability have allowed TACS and OAL to develop a fantastic partnership. Long may it continue!” – Rob Dignen , Head of Operations, TACS

Supporting the Industry in Times of Change

Following the sudden and unexpected closure of two large Private Training Providers in 2022, the apprentices, having achieved gateway but had not started or fully completed EPA, were left in a state of limbo. After months of negotiations and setting up an entirely new funding stream with the DfE, OAL were able to process gateway, and complete EPA for the apprentices who were impacted by the closure and wanted to continue with their assessments. “We are thrilled to have been able to achieve something, that we believed had never been done before. To have so many apprentices that otherwise would not have been able to complete EPA and therefore their apprenticeships is fantastic”. Jan Richardson-Wilde, CEO, OAL

OAL also demonstrated their flexibility and reliability when the UK government implemented the EPAO emergency framework. Playing a key role in maintaining the quality and continuity of assessment services, ensuring apprentices could complete their qualifications despite unforeseen challenges. In 2022, OAL was entrusted by the DfE to oversee the End-Point Assessment for three marine sector apprenticeship standards: Boatbuilder, Marina and Boatyard Operative, and Marine Engineer.

This collaboration highlighted OAL’s adaptability and commitment to delivering high-quality assessments, across all sectors nationwide, leading to the development of more than 50 apprenticeship standards across eight diverse sectors. These include Engineering & Manufacturing, Food and Drink Production, Process & Improvement, and Leadership & Management, among others. By collaborating with industry experts, OAL ensures that its apprenticeship standards align with the real-world requirements of employers and provide apprentices with essential skills for their careers.

Recognising Achievements: The First OAL Awards

In 2023, OAL hosted its first-ever OAL Awards, celebrating the accomplishments of apprentices, training providers, and employers working in partnership with OAL. Highlighting the dedication and hard work of individuals and organisations striving to improve skills development.

“We regularly support the regional and national Apprenticeship Awards, there are so many incredible stories out there of apprenticeship achievement that go untold, especially in the sectors we work in. Many are very humble about the work they do in further education, so we see it as our responsibility to blow their trumpet for them! Through the Awards, OAL reaffirms its commitment to excellence in apprenticeships and industry-wide recognition of outstanding talent!” – Lee Reddington, Partnership Director, OAL

National Recognition at the FAB Awards

After being a finalist for three consecutive years, OAL reached a new level of achievement at the 2024 Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB) Awards. OAL, in partnership with Bournemouth & Poole College, won the ‘Awarding Organisation & Training Provider Relationship of the Year’ category. This award celebrated the exceptional collaboration between OAL and BPC in delivering high-quality marine sector apprenticeships. Their joint efforts in overcoming challenges, ensuring the highest standards of End-Point Assessment, and enhancing learner experiences were instrumental in securing this national accolade.

“OALs commitment to inclusivity, particularly their attention to apprentices requiring reasonable adjustments, set a benchmark for best practices and highlighted their adaptability and genuine care for learner success”. - Antony Carr, Executive Director of Higher Education and Skills, Bournemouth and Poole College.

This achievement further demonstrates OAL’s unwavering commitment to building strong relationships with training providers and industry stakeholders to drive excellence in apprenticeship training and assessment. CEO Jan Richardson-Wilde also received the prestigious 'Leader – Individual of the Year' award for her outstanding leadership and dedication to OAL’s mission. This honour reflects both her personal contributions and the broader impact OAL has made in the apprenticeship and skills sector.

Empowering Apprentices with the PARS Bursary

In October 2024 OAL became the first EPAO to introduce a free Post Apprenticeship Recognition Scheme (PARS) bursary. In partnership with the Association of Apprentices (AoA) and the Chartered Institution for Further Education (CIFE), this initiative ensures that apprentices completing an EPA with OAL can access professional recognition at no cost. By providing financial support for post-nominal designations, OAL enhances apprentices’ career opportunities and professional standing.

“We’re delighted to see OAL, one of AoA’s founding partners, commit to supporting all their apprentices to apply for the PARS award. This is fantastic support for helping apprentices to achieve the professional recognition they deserve and true commitment to investing in their learners’ futures”. – Emily Rock, CEO, Association of Apprentices.

Looking Ahead: The Future of OAL

With plans to expand its qualifications portfolio, establish new industry partnerships, and enhance support for learners, OAL is poised for continued success. The organisation remains dedicated to raising standards in apprenticeships and workforce training.

From its foundation in 2018 to national recognition in 2024, OAL’s journey reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and professional growth. The impact of its work ensures that apprentices across the UK receive top-tier support and recognition as they build their careers.

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