Understanding performance, risk and accountability following the 2026 updates.
All apprenticeship providers are monitored, measured and held accountable through their performance against the indicators within the Apprenticeship Accountability Framework. These measures play a critical role in how provider performance is viewed by the Department for Education and directly influence accountability, funding confidence and an organisation’s ability to continue to deliver apprenticeships in the future.
For governors, leaders and senior managers, understanding how these indicators are constructed, what data sits behind them, and how they are used is essential. The framework is not simply a compliance tool, it is a core mechanism for assessing organisational health, identifying risk, and supporting effective strategic decision-making and long-term sustainability.
Following the introduction of updated accountability indicators from January 2026, providers now need to revisit how they interpret performance data, monitor minimum thresholds, and use this information to inform governance oversight and strategic planning. While the accountability measures set out the minimum expectations providers must meet, strong organisations will go further, using the framework to understand emerging risks, protect revenue, and improve delivery efficiency.
This two-hour deep-dive session will support participants to develop a confident, practical understanding of the updated Apprenticeship Accountability Framework and how it can be used effectively at both the leadership and governance level.
During the session, we’ll look at:
- What the 2026 accountability metrics are and how they are used
- How to interpret and contextualise accountability data effectively
- Approaches to benchmarking performance using national data
- How to forecast risk and monitor improvement at the leadership and board level
- How to plan, prioritise and implement proportionate improvement actions
Practical and actionable resources
You will receive an ‘Apprenticeship Accountability Framework self-assessment and action plan template’ and an export of ‘national benchmark data for QAR, retention and pass rates by standard’ drawn from the forthcoming March 2026 national statistical release, as well as a certificate of attendance as evidence of your personal development.
Being aware of how accountability data is formed and how the measures operate is essential for managing quality and compliance. However, the greater challenge and opportunity lies in putting that data into context, setting realistic and meaningful targets, and using performance information to drive informed, strategic action.
This session is designed to help providers move beyond headline metrics, strengthening their ability to plan, forecast and respond effectively, and laying a strong foundation for accountability, performance and sustainability in the years ahead.
About your session
David Lockhart-Hawkins, SDN’s funding and compliance specialist will facilitate this series. After working in the sector for over 20 years, David has supported hundreds of providers to establish effective compliance systems. His in-depth understanding of funding and wider apprenticeship delivery gives him a unique insight into compliance across the organisation.
This session is suitable for Governors, leaders, managers and senior delivery staff involved in apprenticeship provision.
“David’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled.”
– Event attendee
“I wished I had done it 18m ago when I got involved with apprenticeships.”
– Head of Quality & Improvement/DSL, Central College of Animal Studies
“Very well delivered, clear and very good subject knowledge”
– Team Leader Horticulture Apprentices, Capel Manor College
Booking and payment:
Workshop breakdown
- Live webinar session
- Recording
- Slide deck
- Accountability framework and action plan template
- National benchmark data
Date – 6 March, 10.00am-12.00pm
Cost – £125 (+VAT)