Background

On the 1st August the way in which Train to Gain is funded and the eligibility for funding changed. This update gives an overview of some of the major changes and also provides some general information about Train to Gain.
The rules and regulations associated with Train to Gain can be complex and less than straight forward for those who are unfamiliar with them. This document sets out some of the main themes but EPIC recommends that employers interested in Train to Gain should consult an LSC Approved Training Provider such as EPIC or a Skills Broker for specific advice. The Skills Brokerage Service can be accessed via: http://www.traintogain.gov.uk/

The Basics

Train to Gain is the Government’s flagship service to support the development of employees to achieve qualifications to enhance their productivity and opportunities.
Train to Gain provides funding through the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) to offset the cost of employers developing a more qualified workforce.
Employers with more than 5,000 staff can, if they wish, contract directly with the LSC to draw down funding for qualifications.
Employers with fewer than 5,000 employees can either seek a direct contract with their Regional LSC or contract with an LSC Approved Training Provider.

The direct contract route is complex and approval takes normally 3-6 months to achieve. A direct contract also requires the employer to meet LSC requirements, facilitate LSC audits and Ofsted inspections. By using an already LSC Approved Provider, such as EPIC, the employer has none of this to deal with, it is the LSC Approved Provider who ensures that LSC requirements are met and deals with LSC audits and Ofsted inspections.

Accessing Funding Through EPIC

EPIC is an LSC Approved Training Provider, this enables us to draw down Train to Gain funding for employers throughout England (there are separate arrangements for other parts of the UK). The funding can be directed at programmes where EPIC delivers the qualification programmes directly or to support employers who have their own assessment centre.



For further information about Train to Gain funding contact:

Martin Cox
Training Manager

 tel 07730 315080. 

 

The EPIC Approved Centre can offer assessment services for a range of N/SVQs click here for further information N/SVQs