The largest independent hairdressing and beauty training provider in Wales is being held up by education and training watchdog Estyn as an example for others to follow.
ISA Training’s Chair Shirley Davis-Fox (left) with Managing Director Berni Tyler.
Bridgend-based ISA Training features in Estyn’s annual report, published on January 28th and in two best practice case studies on its website.
“We recognise our unique position to showcase some of the excellent practice that we identify across all of the education and training sectors that we inspect,” states Estyn in the introduction to the case studies on its website.
“We regularly publish case studies of ‘sector-leading’ practice identified during our inspections. These case studies are written by schools and other providers and explain how they have excelled in a specific area of education or training.”
Estyn, which inspects quality and standards in education and training providers in Wales, chose ISA Training’s Oyster Strategy for its annual report and its website. The company’s campaign to encourage the state registration of all qualified hairdressers and barbers is also highlighted on the website.
ISA Training’s managing director Berni Tyler is delighted that the company’s pioneering work has been recognised by Estyn.“We are absolutely thrilled that the company’s work has been acknowledged by Estyn not only in its annual report but also in two best practice case studies on its website,” she added. “It’s recognition of the dedication and hard work by everyone associated with ISA Training and is the ultimate accolade from Estyn.”
The Oyster Strategy was initiated in 2009 to enhance the range and quality of learning experiences and to improve opportunities for learners. The strategy encourages learners to broaden their career horizons.
An analysis of learner and employer feedback concluded that the gap between the skills required for level two – Foundation Apprenticeship – and level three – Apprenticeship – programmes had increased. As a result, many learners lacked confidence and ability to progress from level two.
To address this, ISA extended its Oyster Strategy to incorporate skills development and, since 2012, it has delivered experiences in workshops and industry tasters, facilitated exchanges between Wales, England and throughout Europe, as well as offering a bespoke gap year programme.
“The combination of the new experiences and new technical and social skills has given learners more self-confidence and competence,” states the case study. “They have developed as individuals and in teams, been engaged with their learning and acquired the necessary maturity to successfully complete an apprenticeship.”
ISA Training delivers work-based learning programmes throughout Wales and South West England. The company, which has grown turnover from £350,000 to £4.5 million since its launch in 1998, has 62 staff delivering apprenticeships to more than 800 learners and works closely with in excess of 400 employers.
Last year, the company achieved Investors in People gold status last year, was named the Apprenticeship Provider of the Year and won the Bridgend Business Service of the Year award.
For more information, contact Berni Tyler, ISA Training’s Managing Director, on 0845 301 8660.
