Ofsted recognises outstanding training for police support staff

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has been commended for its apprenticeship training programme, following a recent Ofsted inspection. The programme, which supports police staff working behind the scenes, was rated ‘Good’ overall and ‘Outstanding’ in behaviours and attitudes. The report praised the apprenticeship team’s leadership and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Notably, 100% of apprentices on the customer service apprenticeship achieved an overall distinction grade, with an impressive qualification achievement rate of 83.3% – far exceeding the national average of 54.3%.

This success follows the team’s first full Ofsted inspection in September. The inspection emphasised the vital role of apprentices who support GMP officers behind the scenes, ensuring operational efficiency.

Ellie Baker, Apprenticeship Delivery Manager and Ofsted shadow nominee, shared her pride in the results. “The team has shown dedication and commitment, working through and overcoming challenges to create a robust and impactful programme,” she said.

The apprenticeship team’s efforts to strengthen the programme over the past year were recognised, with Ofsted commending the leadership’s ambitious vision and high expectations for their apprentices.

What’s next for emergency services apprenticeships?

With a new government comes new policies, and the introduction of the Growth and Skills Levy marks a significant shift in apprenticeship funding. Skills England, a new regulatory body, will oversee alignment between apprenticeship programmes and critical skills gaps.

What do these changes mean for the emergency services? How can apprenticeship programmes continue to excel amid evolving funding models and workforce needs?

Find out in our upcoming webinar:

‘What the change of government means for blue light apprenticeships’
📅 Date: 21 November
⏰ Time: 2:00PM

Join our expert panel, including:

• Catherine Levin, Chair
• Rachael Mann, Category Buyer, HR Services, YPO
• Jane Brown, Apprenticeship & Succession Manager, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service
• Jo Morrissey, Workforce Strategy Lead, NPCC Forensic Capability Network

Register now to explore how emergency services can adapt to these changes and continue building high-quality apprenticeship programmes that meet the sector’s evolving demands.