ALS praised after latest Ofsted inspection
ALS Training, a subsidiary of ACT and part of the Cardiff and Vale College Group, has received a positive Ofsted report following a successful inspection of its Aerospace Apprenticeship programme.
Inspectors met with apprentices, delivery staff and senior leaders to evaluate the quality and impact of the work-based training provision. The report, published in January, highlights strong performance across several key areas, including leadership and management, learner achievement, curriculum design and teaching standards.
Ofsted praised ALS’s inclusive and supportive culture, noting that apprentices’ wellbeing, safety and professional development are central to the organisations approach. Learners were described as confident, demonstrating high levels of engagement with their learning and a strong understanding of industry expectations.
Leadership was singled out for its in-depth knowledge of the provision and its responsiveness to employer feedback, ensuring the programme is aligned with the needs of the sector and the apprentices. Tutors and delivery staff were also praised for their commitment to professional development. Assessors undertake regular industry-specific training to maintain the high standards required within the highly regulated aerospace industry.
The curriculum and teaching methods were described as ambitious and future-forward, with a clear focus on developing the skills needed for the future of the aerospace industry. Apprentices benefit from expert teaching that breaks down complex technical concepts into clear, accessible learning.
Apprentices make excellent progress on programme, with both the achievement rate and apprenticeship pass rate exceeding the national average. Ofsted highlighted the unique relationship between training provider, employer and learner, describing it as a key strength of the programme.
A particular standout within the report was the focus on learner support and inclusion. ALS Training provides a range of pastoral support services, including access to a 24-hour helpline staffed by healthcare professionals, assistance with travel expenses, and tailored support to help apprentices succeed both academically and personally.
Commenting on the inspection outcome, Sarah John, Director at ALS Training said:
“This is an excellent result and a real credit to our apprentices, staff and employer partners. We are incredibly proud of the inclusive and supportive learning environment we have created, and the report reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality training that meets both learner needs and the demands of the aerospace industry.”
ALS Training currently delivers a range of apprenticeships across the digital, financial and professional services sectors and works in partnership with ACT to deliver in demand, high quality training qualifications.