National Apprenticeship certification system launched for England

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Jan 2012

The Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, the organisation responsible for representing the voice of Sector Skills Councils, Sector Skills Organisations and their employers across the UK skills system, in conjunction with the National Apprenticeship Service, has launched a new online system to support the statutory certification of Apprenticeships across England.

As the Certifying Authority for Apprenticeships in England, the Alliance will be responsible for issuing certificates upon the successful completion of each Apprenticeship. The new centralised Apprenticeship Certificates England (ACE) system will save Apprenticeship training providers and issuing authorities valuable time, resource and investment and will allow them to track the progress of Apprenticeship candidates.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, John Hayes MP, said: "The Government is restoring practical learning to its rightful place as a hallmark of personal attainment and national pride. Apprenticeships are a gold standard qualification, and it's right that the hard work of people who undertake them should be marked and celebrated.

"In this Olympic year, I am delighted to launch the new national gold, silver and bronze certificates to recognise the success of apprentices. The launch of these awards reflects the sterling achievements of the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils and the National Apprenticeship Service in helping forge a revitalised skills system that meets - and raises - the aspirations of learners and employers."

John Rogers, Executive Chair of the Alliance, said: "I am delighted to be able to announce the launch of ACE, a system that will enable the certification of Apprenticeships in England and will underpin this vital programme.

"Apprenticeships play an important role in the provision of a highly skilled workforce in England and it is vital that we ensure individuals have the right skills, at the right time, to ensure they are best-placed to take advantage of the opportunities that arise as the economy continues to recover."

For more information on Apprenticeship Certificates England (ACE) email ace@sscalliance.org or call 0844 573 2560.