DfE adds ILR data option to simplify apprentice funding approvals

Training providers can now add their apprentices' details to their Apprenticeship Service accounts using individual learning records (ILR) data.  

The Department for Education (DfE) has introduced this new option to simplify the apprentice funding approval process.  

It means training providers in England are now able to enter new apprentice details imported from the individual learning records (ILR) by clicking on 'Select apprentices from ILR.' 

This new facility, says the DfE, will reduce the need for duplicate data entry and help lower the number of apprentice detail related data locks, resulting in faster approvals.  

Apprentice details added via the ILR data option will still need to have recognition of prior learning information entered into the apprenticeship service account.  

Further improvements to this service will be implemented in the coming months, the DfE has confirmed.  

Adding an apprentice from ILR files  

To add an apprentice using the information they've already submitted in an ILR file, training providers will need to supply the: 

• employer's account name or agreement ID 
•  apprentice's name and unique learner number (ULN)  

They will then be asked to confirm the apprentice's: 

• date of birth 
• email address 
• start and end dates 
• total training and assessment price as agreed with the employer 
• reduction in duration and price if there is any recognised prior learning (RPL) 
• standard option if relevant 

If any details in the apprenticeship service account are being changed, then they'll need to be updated in the ILR and resubmitted to prevent a data mismatch. 

Further information on how to add apprentices to an employer's apprenticeship service account can be found here. 

As a leader in edtech Onefile welcomes developments which make the whole online funding approvals procedure simpler and quicker. And, as you know, we always like to be ahead of the curve. Our ILR Tracker lets apprenticeship providers submit their Individual Learner Record data to the DfE when applying for funding. It integrates with other Onefile products including Eportfolio, RPL Funding Calculator and Enrol. Features include:  

• Cloud based data entry 
• 24/7 remote access 
• Field validation 
• Integration to LRS (Learning Records Service)  
• Submit ILR data to DfE 
• Highlights errors returned from DfE 
• Reporting/Dashboards 
• Integration with other Onefile products although it can also be stand alone. 

ILR Tracker comes with so many benefits, including removing the administrative burden and saving time and money. Its features mean there's also less chance of making errors but if a mistake has been made, it's easier to spot. All data is in once place and available in real time resulting in ease of audit, forecasting and reporting.  

For more information, talk to us today.