AELP welcomes ‘significant’ rise in apprenticeship Qualification Achievement Rates

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) has warmly welcomed new data from the Department for Education showing a significant increase in apprenticeship Qualification Achievement Rates (QAR), which have risen to 60.5%.

This encouraging rise highlights the sector’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality training and positive outcomes for both learners and employers. With Independent Training Providers (ITPs) responsible for delivering over two-thirds of all apprenticeships, AELP emphasises that the improvement in QAR should be considered alongside stronger Ofsted inspection outcomes — with 90% of learners now training with a provider rated good or outstanding.

AELP is currently undertaking its second Mini Commission which is focusing on how we can improve the measurement of apprenticeship success rates to ensure an even greater focus on good outcomes for learners, coupled with what greater employer accountability should look like as the system matures.

Ben Rowland, AELP CEO, said:

“This is a timely boost following yesterday’s Spring Statement from the Chancellor. A significant increase in achievement rates is excellent news and a testament to the tireless efforts of learners, employers, and providers across the country. We’re especially proud of the vital role played by our members in delivering this progress. With 90% of learners now training with a good or outstanding provider, these figures reflect the sector’s resilience, dedication, and laser focus on learner success.

“Crucially, the sector hasn’t done this alone—it’s done it together. We’ve seen collaboration like never before. Providers learning from each other. Peer support and shared practice flourishing. At AELP, we’re proud to have played a big part in that—though we’re certainly not the only ones.
“We continue to champion the view that skills means growth and this progress underscores the value of investing in the skills sector. As we look ahead to June’s Comprehensive Spending Review, this data will give the Treasury reassurance that apprenticeship funding delivers real, measurable outcomes.”

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) is a national membership body, proudly representing organisations operating in the skills sector. AELP members deliver a range of training and vocational learning – including the majority of apprenticeships as well as Skills Bootcamps, 16-19 Study Programme, Adult Education Budget and more.

For further information or interviews please contact Matt Strong, Communications Manager, AELP, on 07920 161685 or mstrong@aelp.org.uk