As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect moment to look back on 2024—a year filled with milestones, growth, and collective achievements for DSW and the broader sector. Marking our 25th anniversary, the year was a testament to our enduring commitment to supporting clients and driving excellence.
From expanding our support to more training providers, employers, and apprentices than ever before, to welcoming five outstanding new team members, 2024 has been a year of progress. One standout achievement was reaching a customer satisfaction score of NPS 85, a reflection of the trust and confidence our clients place in our work.
On a personal note, we celebrated key milestones within our team—nine long-service anniversaries, an engagement, and the arrival of three new babies!
Collaboration: A Cornerstone of Success
One of the year’s defining themes has been collaboration within our sector. Despite the competitive nature of our industry, organisations came together to address shared challenges. Through initiatives like the EPA Quality Alliance, we contributed to improving clarity in the ESFA’s EPAO conditions and helped align assessment practices across the board. These collective efforts enhanced both the integrity and transparency of the sector—a true testament to what we can achieve together.
Navigating Uncertainty
2024 wasn’t without its challenges. The evolving political landscape brought a mix of uncertainty and adaptation, as Labour’s policies on apprenticeships and training began to take shape. While some measures, such as using 50% of the levy for non-apprenticeship training, were scaled back, others moved forward, including plans to defund Level 7 apprenticeships—albeit without clear timelines.
This uncertainty led to a temporary slowdown in apprenticeship starts, as many employers paused to evaluate the implications of policy changes. However, as the year progressed, we witnessed a stabilising trend, with employers increasingly choosing action over hesitation.
Reasons to Be Optimistic
Despite these challenges, there are plenty of reasons to feel hopeful:
- Skills remain a government priority, ensuring continued investment in talent development.
- Policy evolution over revolution suggests more measured changes on the horizon.
- Apprenticeship completion rates are rising, signalling improved learner outcomes.
As one of our clients aptly put it, “There’s no point in waiting any longer.” This sentiment, echoed by many, underscores a growing confidence in the future.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we embark on 2025, we do so with renewed energy and determination. While challenges are inevitable, so too are opportunities. Adapting strategies and embracing change will remain central to the success of employers, training providers, and awarding organisations alike.
At DSW, we stand ready to support our clients as they navigate this evolving landscape, helping them turn challenges into opportunities. Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and success.
Let’s face 2025 with optimism and resolve. Together, we can continue to strengthen and future-proof our sector.