Meeting Demand Head-On: Paragon Skills’ Partnership With Innovate Awarding

Paragon Skills is a major UK apprenticeship training provider, currently supporting around 8,000 apprentices nationwide. Since 2021, the organisation has seen remarkable growth, increasing its apprentice numbers from approximately 3,000, placing it among the largest providers in the country.

The Challenge: Scaling Apprenticeship Management

“The things that training providers care about is communication and the speed of the process for their learners.” – Graham Heath

 

As Paragon Skills rapidly expanded, managing operational complexity became increasingly difficult. Ensuring apprentices could progress smoothly through assessments was a major operational challenge. Efficient processes were essential to avoid delays, minimise administrative burdens, and ensure quality remained high during rapid growth.

 

The key issue was finding reliable assessment providers capable of delivering consistent and timely support to match Paragon’s pace. 

The Solution: Reliable And Responsive Partnership

 “Innovate Awarding are arguably the best awarding organisation we work with — they’re highly responsive and dependable.” – Graham Heath

 

Paragon partnered with Innovate Awarding, whose dedicated support for end-point assessments (EPA) helped streamline critical operational areas: 

Efficient Apprentice Assessment Processes

Innovate’s responsive team simplified administrative tasks, enabling apprentices to progress quickly and smoothly through their assessments.

Personalised Account Management

Innovate’s account manager provided consistent, proactive support, ensuring rapid resolutions to operational queries and challenges.

Improved Problem-Solving Capabilities

The proactive nature of Innovate's team allowed Paragon to quickly overcome any emerging issues, maintaining operational continuity.

The Results: Improved Operational Efficiency And Confidence

“We rarely face issues we can't quickly resolve thanks to Innovate’s proactive support and our effective working relationship.” – Graham Heath

 

Key improvements from the partnership include: 

Quicker Assessment Turnaround

Learners experienced faster progression, enhancing their apprenticeship journey and overall satisfaction.

Reduced Administrative Burdens

Paragon’s operational team experienced less administrative workload, enabling greater focus on learner outcomes and quality assurance.

Confidence To Scale Further

A reliable and responsive partnership with Innovate Awarding has empowered Paragon Skills to confidently manage their expanding apprenticeship programme.

A Strategic Partnership For Future Growth

“Our strong relationship with Innovate Awarding has definitely supported our continued growth.” – Graham Heath

 

Paragon Skills values its partnership with Innovate Awarding as a strategic relationship that significantly contributes to operational effectiveness. With Innovate’s continued support, Paragon is well-equipped to sustain and build on its successful growth trajectory.

 

“If anybody wants to go with Innovate, then get onto them... I don’t think you'd be disappointed.” – Graham Heath 

Smarter Apprenticeship Management Starts Here

Paragon Skills’ successful growth demonstrates how effective partnerships and reliable assessment processes are essential for scaling apprenticeship programmes. With proactive support, streamlined assessment processes, and dependable operational solutions, Innovate Awarding helps providers stay ahead. 

 

Ready to transform your apprenticeship programme?