Why Qualification Achievement Rates (QAR) Matter When Choosing an Apprenticeship Provider

Choosing the right apprenticeship provider is a strategic decision for schools and trusts investing apprenticeship levy funding. One of the most reliable and objective measures of provider quality is the Qualification Achievement Rate (QAR). Used well, QAR data helps leaders focus on outcomes, not promises.

What is a Qualification Achievement Rate (QAR)?

A Qualification Achievement Rate shows the percentage of apprentices who start a programme and successfully complete it. In simple terms, it tells you how often apprentices reach the finish line.

QARs are calculated using national data and published annually. They allow employers to compare providers on a like-for-like basis and are widely used across the sector as an indicator of delivery quality.

Four reasons why QAR should matter to schools and trusts

1. QAR focuses on outcomes, not marketing

QAR data is based on real completion results. It cuts through brochures and sales pitches and shows how effectively a provider supports apprentices to achieve.

2. It protects the value of levy spend

Low achievement rates often indicate issues with learner support, programme design or employer engagement. Strong QARs increase confidence that levy funding is being used effectively.

3. It helps compare providers objectively

When choosing between providers, QAR gives you a shared benchmark. Consistently high achievement rates suggest stronger systems, better learner support and more robust delivery.

4. It supports governance and accountability

Using QAR data demonstrates due diligence. Governors, trustees and senior leaders can clearly explain why particular providers were selected and how quality was assured

Using QAR data in practice

Access national QAR figures 

National apprenticeship achievement rates tables: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sfa-national-success-rates-tables

Apprentices succeed when line managers understand their role in coaching, mentoring and applying learning in the workplace. Build this into your approach from the start.

• Start by reviewing the national achievement rate tables and identifying providers with consistently strong results. Look at trends over time rather than a single year. Ask providers to explain their data, including what they do to support apprentices at risk of non-completion.

• QAR should never be the only measure you use, but it should be a central one.

• In a crowded apprenticeship market, focusing on achievement rates helps schools and trusts prioritise quality, impact and value.

The National College of Education supports schools and trusts to interpret QAR data and choose apprenticeship providers that deliver meaningful outcomes.

Conclusion

In a crowded apprenticeship market, QAR helps schools and trusts cut through the noise. While it should never be the only measure used, strong achievement rates provide a clear, objective signal of quality, impact and value for levy funding. Focusing on outcomes, not promises, leads to better apprenticeships and better results.