1. SFA CHANGES IN 2016/17

2. SFA Changes 2016/17
A single document sets out the rules to follow for all Skills Funding Agency (SFA) provision.
The SFA have separate funding rules for each programme (for example apprenticeships). This includes funding rules common to all apprenticeships, regardless of whether providers are delivering frameworks or standards.

3. SFA Changes 2016/17

4. 2016/17 Overview
No major funding rule changes to Framework Apprenticeships
Adult Skills Budget (ASB) now forms part of Adult Education Budget (AEB)
Providers will continue to be funded by the SFA in 2016/17 but there will be an increasing expectation that Providers will ensure their provision meets the local priorities. This is an existing requirement that will need to be developed further.
SFA Changes 2016/17

5. Advanced Learner Loans (Renamed)
The rules for subcontracting provision funded by loans have changed. You cannot enter into any new subcontracting arrangements in 2016 to Any subcontracts already in place must have completed delivery by 31 July 2017.
SFA Changes 2016/17

6. Apprenticeships: English and maths Requirements (Intermediate Apprenticeships)
Rules that apply to all intermediate level apprentices who start frameworks on or after 1 August 2014.
If they already have a Level 2 in English and maths that meets the minimum requirement of the apprenticeship framework before they start then they are exempt from taking English or maths.
If they already have a Level 1 in either English or maths that meets the minimum requirement of the apprenticeship framework before they start they must start and continue to study Level 2 English or maths.
If the apprentice studies at Level 2 in English or maths where they already have qualifications that meet the requirements of the apprenticeship framework, they do not need to achieve these before framework achievement can be claimed.
SFA Funding Rules 2016/17

7. Apprenticeships: English and maths Requirements (Intermediate Apprenticeships)
If they do not have the Level 1 in English or maths that meets the minimum requirement of the apprenticeship framework before they start they must:
be offered the opportunity to take Level 2 functional skills or GCSE qualifications in English or maths
achieve the English and maths requirements set in the framework
If they achieve Level 1 in English or maths during their apprenticeship, you must offer them Level 2 Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications in English or maths. You must record the offer of Level 2 in English or maths during an apprenticeship in the learner file, and have evidence where the apprentice declines to take up the offer.
SFA Funding Rules 2016/17

8. APPRENTICESHIPS ACHIEVEMENTS
You must provide copies of the certificate within three months of the completion date of a learning aim, including the framework certificate.
Learners cannot achieve an interim aim whilst on a break in learning. If IV takes place after the start of the break in learning then the achievement cannot be claimed.
SFA Funding Rules 2016/17

9. APPRENTICESHIPS STANDARDS
Separate funding rules document
Existing funding model used, as introduced in 2014/15
New paperwork will be in place to accommodate this provision – do not use existing apprenticeship paperwork
Notify BST as early as possible with details of standards being delivered
SFA Funding Rules 2016/17

10. APPRENTICESHIP FRAMEWORKS
FUNDING RATES AND FORMULA
There are no significant changes to the funding calculation in the funding year 2016 to SFA will fund all learning aims at the same rate as the funding year 2015 to 2016.
Cannot recruit apprenticeship starts after 1 April 2017 – new rules and funding guide due shortly.
SFA Changes 2016/17

11. SFA/ESF REQUIREMENTS Key ILR data:
Employment status prior to starting (does not refer to the day before training starts – e.g. if unemployed and placed in an organisation by the Provider then do not add employer details to the application form – complete a new IAG to reflect the change and justification for programme). Shows distance travelled.
Household situation – capture data wherever possible.
Prior attainment – must be accurate and include qualifications recorded on the application form and LRS (relevant discrepancies must be investigated and outcome recorded on the IAG Record).
Destination data – must be accurate and should not be ‘not known’. Don’t confuse ‘Can’t contact learner’ with information ‘not known’ if destination is known.
SFA Changes 2016/17

12. SFA/ESF REQUIREMENTS ESF - Publicity:
Must follow the rules relating to marketing (displaying correct ESF logo on website and marketing materials, displaying ESF plaque and poster. This may be checked by SFA/ESF representative and must be in place – particularly on websites)
Must advise the learner of ESF match funding (declarations are on PTP paperwork). When printing paperwork, ensure that information fits correctly on each page and logo is fully displayed (logo should be displayed on the signature page).
SFA Changes 2016/17

13. SFA/ESF REQUIREMENTS Policies and Plans:
PTP must have current copies of the following:
Sustainable Development Policy and Plan (each year’s plan should show distance travelled and milestones achieved)
Equality and Diversity Policy and Plan (each year’s plan should show distance travelled and milestones achieved)
Health & Safety Policy (including Safeguarding Policy)
Self Assessment Document and QIPs
SFA Changes 2016/17

14. SFA/ESF REQUIREMENTS ESF Rules: Check the rules:
SFA Changes 2016/17