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Suffolk college backs scrapping English and maths tests for adult apprentices

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Suffolk New College is supporting new government changes that remove mandatory English and maths qualifications for apprentices over 19, affecting 47 current adult learners at the institution.

Why it matters: The Department for Education (DfE) reforms aim to overcome 'red tape' and will lead to "10,000 more apprenticeship starts every year", according to Education Secretary Bridgette Phillipson.

The big picture: The changes give employers, colleges and providers flexibility to decide whether adult apprentices need to complete GCSE-equivalent English and maths qualifications to finish their apprenticeship.

Sarah Hancock from Sizewell C at Suffolk New College
Sarah Hancock from Sizewell C at Suffolk New CollegeSuffolk New College

Local impact:

  • 47 adult apprentices at Suffolk New College are currently required to complete English and/or maths qualifications, with 18 studying both subjects.

  • The college is creating information packages to help employers understand the changes.

  • Some apprenticeships can now be completed in eight months instead of 12, which Principal Alan Pease believes will help meet employer needs, "particularly on large infrastructure projects such as Sizewell C."

  • Sizewell C HR Director Sarah Hancock said: "At least 540 of the 1,500 apprenticeships we're offering over the construction period will come from Suffolk. These are life-changing opportunities, providing hundreds of young people the chance to gain new skills and find opportunities to build careers right here in Suffolk."

What they're saying: Suffolk New College  Principal and CEO Alan Pease  said: "We very much welcome the news. I believe it will remove barriers for adult learners who will no longer need to take an English and maths qualification as they look to gain more skills via apprenticeships."

Alan Pease, CEO and principal of Suffolk New College at No.10 Downing Street
Alan Pease, CEO and principal of Suffolk New College at No.10 Downing StreetSuffolk New College

For context: The announcement comes during National Apprenticeship Week, with Suffolk New College hosting their annual apprenticeship awards night where nine learners received awards across various subjects.

What's next: Pease hopes the DfE will extend similar policies to younger learners, saying colleges should be trusted to "embed numeracy and literacy skills within a vocational context as part of their qualifications."

The bottom line: The college will work with current apprentices and employers to navigate the new process, while encouraging local businesses to reach out for support in understanding the changes.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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