Information for supply side

Within this section of the website you will find information for training providers and colleges on:

• the components of the framework
• Framework certificate application
• Skills Funding Agency requirements
• Apprenticeship training provider guide

SASE compliant framework (since 18 May 2011)
The Specification for Apprenticeship Standards England (SASE) joint Health and Social Care Apprenticeship framework issued by Skills for Care and Development has two distinct pathways at both intermediate and advanced level. These are 'health' or 'adult social care'.

A revised Intermediate and Advanced Apprenticeship framework for Health and Social Care (funding stream 444) was uploaded to the Apprenticeship Frameworks Online (AFO) on 25/08/2011. The summary of changes can be found on pages 3-5 of the framework and it primarily includes minor edits and an inclusion of a number of different awarding bodies' qualifications.

The framework can be downloaded here: SASE compliant framework 

An overview of the components of the framework is available via the link below: SASE Apprenticeship Framework Components.

Providers should always refer to the Apprenticeship Frameworks Online (AFO) for the latest and legacy versions of any framework http://www.apprenticeshipframeworksonline.semta.org.uk/.

It is important that apprentices are registered for and undertake the correct pathway for the occupational area they are working in whilst undertaking the Apprenticeship as certificates are now issued separately. Apprentices working in adult social care must undertake pathway 1 at the appropriate level. Pathway 1 contains the required components for the Social Care sector which includes the knowledge certificate 'Preparing to work in Adult Social Care'.  

Skills Funding Agency funding requirements 2011/12

Zero hour contracts will be accepted for apprenticeships, a positive step for domiciliary care workers and those on zero hour contracts. For further information on funding and conditions regarding zero hours contracts please visit point 71 on page 16 of the below guide:
Apprenticeships funding requirements 2011/12

Within the guide you will also find information about the Access to Apprenticeships pathway. This is a pathway to a full Apprenticeship for unemployed 16 - 24 year olds. The learner does not need to be employed on the first day and will not be categorised as an Apprentice, however they can work towards elements of an Apprenticeship framework for up to a maximum of six months. It is expected they will then move to a full apprenticeship with a contract of employment.

• components of the framework

Click on the link above for mapping matrices and further information on the different elements of the framework

• Framework certificate

For an update on the current certification arrangements, please click on the link above

• Skills for Care issues guidance on employing workers aged under 18
• Apprenticeship training provider guide

Skills for Care has developed a guide for organisations delivering adult social care Apprenticeships in England to support, facilitate and enhance the relationships between the employer and the organisations which manage the delivery of Apprenticeship contracts.

For all enquiries please email apprenticeships@skillsforcare.org.uk.