News - AIM

News Dashboard

All the latest news and events

10 October 2024

AIM achieves Cyber Essentials certification for 2024

AIM has successfully passed the Cyber Essentials review for 2024, earning our certificate of assurance for the year ahead.

1 October 2024

Building Inclusive Learning Experiences

Webinar 17 October 1.30pm online

30 September 2024

Finalists announced for prestigious Access to Higher Education (HE) Celebration event

We're gearing up for a spectacular awards evening dedicated to celebrating all that is Access to Higher Education!

30 September 2024

Winners announced for 2024 AIM Awards

Recognising excellence in qualification development, assessment design, and educational innovation.

13 September 2024

The Publishing Professional Apprenticeship - a win-win opportunity

The publishing industry is changing at an immense speed. AIM's EPA Developer and MD of Westchester Publishing Services looks at why a Publishing Professional apprenticeship can be a win-win opportunity for your organisation

13 September 2024

Five facts about skills and careers in UK transport and logistics

Discover the skills and careers that power the UK transport and logistics industry.

12 September 2024

Welcome to new and returning centres for 2024/25

Group CEO, Kevern Kerswell welcomes new and returning centres for the new academic year

11 September 2024

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group Awarded RACE Equality Code 2020 Quality Mark

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group has earned the prestigious RACE Equality Code 2020 Quality Mark, highlighting its dedication to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across the organisation.

6 September 2024

A new dawn for skills development

AIMs Director of Qualifications and Assessment Services shares her perspective of a new dawn for skills development following the recent announcement of Skills England.

3 September 2024

AIM and Capital 42-day Kickstart

Kickstart this academic year with an expertly written interactive eLearning course on Environmental Sustainability FREE-OF-CHARGE.

15 August 2024

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group Announces Strategic Partnership with The Sustainability Academy

The partnership aims to develop accredited training programs that will help learners of all ages and contexts better understand sustainability and how they can support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

23 July 2024

Access to HE Results 2024

We are pleased to announce that we have completed the release of Access to HE Diploma results to UCAS for 2024. Here's what's happening next.

19 July 2024

AIM announced amongst finalists for 2024 FAB Awards!

AIM are finalists in two categories in this year's FAB Awards!

10 July 2024

What does cocooning have to do with Interior Design?

Cocooning has become especially popular in recent times. This blog looks at its relation to interior design.

10 July 2024

How Associate Project Managers bridge the skills gap

Findings show that many organisations don't fully understand the value of a project manager role. This blog looks at why you should employ a project manager and how they can bridge skills gaps within your organisation.

9 July 2024

Keep your learners engaged over summer

Keep your students learning during the summer break, so they are engaged and well prepared for the next academic year with Capital Tutorials and the LearningPlus online platform

5 July 2024

Endorsed by AIM

Find out how AIM is working with the NHS to validate their training courses.

28 June 2024

Extended Early Bird ticket offer for 2024 AIM Conference and Awards!

25 June 2024

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group Granted SQA Accreditation License for Domestic Retrofit Qualification

We're proud to announce we have been granted an Accreditation License by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to deliver the Award in Understanding Domestic Retrofit qualification in Scotland.

12 June 2024

AIM’s Bespoke Provision now funded by the Adult Skills Fund

Thanks to new flexibilities in the government's Adult Skills Fund (ASF) for 2024-2025, non-regulated, tailored learning provision like AIM’s Bespoke offer now qualify for Adult Skills funding.

6 June 2024

A Retrospective look at Access to HE with Pam Stanway

Pam Stanway, AIM's Access to HE Manager shares her thoughts about the changing face of Access to HE Diplomas

31 May 2024

AIM signs Social Recruitment Covenant with PeoplePlus

AIM has signed the Social Recruitment Covenant to pledge its commitment to increasing the role of social value across our organisation’s recruitment and employment practices.

23 May 2024

Fabienne Bailey Re-Appointed as Export Champion for Northern Powerhouse

AIM Director of Business Growth and Transformation, Fabienne Bailey, has been re-appointed as an Export Champion.

23 May 2024

The impact of AI on the photography sector

We look at the impact of AI on the photography sector, the challenges photographers are facing and the future of AI-powered photography.

21 May 2024

New SEND qualification launched for Teaching Assistants

We are pleased to announce the launch of a new SEND qualification that has been approved by IFATE and Ofqual for delivery from September 2025.

21 May 2024

The rising demand for SEND support in education

Kim Underhill, Head of Qualifications and Assessment Development, looks at the demand for qualified SEND support in education.

20 May 2024

Customised Training and Certification with AIM's Bespoke Accreditation Service

For organisations using, or wanting to create, specialised training programs tailored to their unique needs, AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group offers a cutting-edge Bespoke Accreditation service.

17 May 2024

The AIM Assessment Philosophy

Kevern Kerswell, Group CEO of AIM Qualification and Assessment speaks candidly about the learner centred assessment

7 May 2024

New partnership brings powerful online learning platform to Access to HE providers

New eassessorpro brings benefits to AIM centres delivering new blended learning Access to HE Diplomas

26 April 2024

Five reasons to get qualified with AIMs Retrofit qualifications

AIM understands the challenges associated with retrofitting millions of UK homes and we have a solution for changing this dynamic and bridging the skills gap through our suite of retrofit qualifications.

15 April 2024

AIM secures grant from Qualifications Wales to expand Welsh-medium qualifications

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group has been awarded a significant grant from Qualifications Wales to make high demand qualifications available in Welsh. AIM yn sicrhau grant gan Cymwysterau Cymru i ehangu cymwysterau cyfrwng Cymraeg.

11 April 2024

What are the benefits of being a Training Partner with The Retrofit Academy?

11 April 2024

The Changing Face of Marketing

9 April 2024

AIM trustee appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands

The Board of Trustees and Executive Leadership Team at AIM are pleased to announce Deputy Chair of the AIM Board, Owen Everton Burke OBE DL FCFE, has been appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands

18 March 2024

Customer Experience Update

An update from our customer experience directorate.

8 March 2024

Championing women internationally

6 March 2024

Keith Fletcher Memorial Prize Access to Higher Education Student Prize Winners 2022-2023

14 February 2024

The importance of choosing the right Access Validating Agency (AVA)

9 February 2024

Choosing the right End-Point Assessment Organisation for your apprentices

As a training provider, choosing the right End-Point Assessment Organisation for your apprentices is one of your biggest decisions. Here's our tips on what to look for in an EPAO.

2 February 2024

New EPA standards coming soon!

Our EPA offer is growing with nine new EPA standards currently in development, launching throughout 2024.

2 February 2024

AIM Assessment – setting the standard through personal experience!

Looking at our personal experiences of employing apprentices and the valuable experience and insights gained that help us develop our EPA activities.

25 January 2024

VTQ Information Hub updated with key dates for delivery of VTQs in 2024

For Level 3, Level 1/2 and Level 2 vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs) used for progression and taken alongside or in place of A-levels and GCSEs.

12 January 2024

Growing workforce skills and advancing development

The AIM Assessment team are thrilled to announce our new Business Administrator standard.

11 January 2024

Parity between apprenticeships and degrees moves a step closer with new UCAS search tool

UCAS has officially added apprenticeship vacancies to its website so that students can consider them as an option alongside degrees.

10 January 2024

It all starts with skills!

‘It all starts with skills’ is the new Skills for Life campaign launched by the Department for Education aiming to motivate young people and more.

10 January 2024

Shape the future AIM of special educational needs qualifications

Centres asked to provide evidence of qualification demand.

9 January 2024

The Power of Apprenticeships for Businesses

In the ever-evolving business landscape, huge benefits are being felt by employing business administration apprenticeships.

15 December 2023

Season's Greetings from AIM

Season's Greetings from everyone at AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group!

13 December 2023

FAB Award Winners

We are delighted to announce a double success at last night’s FAB Awards, hosted by the Federation of Awarding Bodies.

5 December 2023

Peep Practitioner Accreditation

Peeple use the AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group customised accreditation to support parents/carers and children to improve children's outcomes.

1 December 2023

Access to HE: January starts

January starts or winter intake, marks a second opportunity for AIM Access to HE centres to welcome new learners beginning their journey to HE.

30 November 2023

Kickstart 2024 with AIM Access to HE!

Were looking to 2024 and how AIM centres can kickstart their year with our Access to HE Diplomas.

27 November 2023

AIM pledges support for Liverpool’s gaming future through GameChangers initiative

AIM recently pledged to join a community of GameChangers to grow and develop the games talent working in the Liverpool City Region (LCR).

10 November 2023

A Monumental Year!

AIM releases Impact Report for 2022 – 2023 showcasing their exceptional achievements over the last 12 months

9 November 2023

Revealed; Winners of AIM's Empowering Futures Awards

Outstanding Achievements Celebrated at the AIM Empowering Futures Conference

6 November 2023

Celebrating Youth Work Week 2023

Authorities have a duty to provide a local youth offer for young people and are required to ensure that their offer fulfils young peoples needs.

23 October 2023

AIM make the FAB Finals

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group are overjoyed to be announced as finalists for several FAB awards categories.

12 October 2023

Why do we need public relations and communications personnel?

Discover the endless benefits an organisation experiences when recruiting public relations and communications personnel.

3 October 2023

End-point assessments over the Christmas period

An update for around our end point assessment services in preparation of the christmas period.

29 September 2023

DJ CZR makes history as first graduate of Music Production Apprenticeship - with Double Distinction

Harjan Dhanjal, the first apprentice to complete the new production apprenticeship, scored top marks after collaborating with an up-and-coming artist.

14 September 2023

Carmarthenshire animal carer wins Inspire! Award for her determination to turn her life around

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group is delighted to be supporting the Inspire! Adult Learners’ Awards in Wales by sponsoring the ‘Young Adult Learner Award.’ And what an amazing winner Harley is. Read her inspirational story

8 September 2023

AIM Sponsors the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2023.

We are pleased to announce that AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group is sponsoring the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2023.

6 September 2023

AIM supports Adult Learning Awards in Wales

AIM is pleased to be supporting the Inspire! Adult Learning Awards

4 September 2023

New AIM phone number

We are pleased to announce an update to our contact information that will make reaching us easier and more affordable!

4 September 2023

Auto-assessed e-learning for AIM centres

AIM and LearningPlus continue to work together in partnership to develop auto-assed content to support providers with efficient, relevant, and engaging training.

4 September 2023

Important Reminder: keep your centre contact details up to date

As valuable customers, we want to ensure that your experience with us remains seamless and efficient. Therefore, we kindly remind you to review and update your centre's key contacts in our system.

4 September 2023

Learner Registration Reminder

To ensure a seamless process for learner registration and certification, we want to provide you with a quick reminder of the learner registration deadlines.

4 September 2023

Regulatory Compliance updates

Updates from the Compliance and Access to HE team

1 September 2023

Welcome from AIM CEO

AIM CEO, Kevern Kerswell, welcomes new and returning centres for 2023-24 and shares our organisations' aspirations for the future.

1 September 2023

A Day in the Life of an End-Point Assessor: Sarah Colombini

EPA Assessor for the PR and Communications apprencticeship standard, Sarah Colombini, takes us through her day of an EPA assessor.

8 August 2023

Empowering Futures Awards 2023: Nominations now open

Nominations are now open for AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group’s inaugural Empowering Futures Awards, designed to recognise and reward the fantastic achievements and work of AIM’s partner organisations across the FE and training sector.

4 August 2023

Summer awarding success at AIM

AIM is pleased to announce completion of a successful awarding summer, with all qualification results processed and successfully submitted to QAA and UCAS ahead of schedule.

2 August 2023

Government funding bid launched for net zero training

Competition launched by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to fund training for people working in the energy efficiency and building retrofit sectors.

1 August 2023

Twice the size, twice the choice and with double the knowledge and experience

Find out more about AIM's expanded Access to HE Diplomaprovision

31 July 2023

Fees and Charges for 2023/24

We've launched our new fees and charges guides for both our qualification and end-point assessment branches.

5 July 2023

Fundraising: Three-minute read

Fundraising: Sector trends and recruitment

4 July 2023

How to spot if a learner would make a good counsellor

Marketing and Communications Officer, Jas Jandu, shares her thoughts on the skills and qualities that make a good counsellor amongst students.

19 June 2023

Keep your learners engaged before they start their course

Short bite-size courses in the first 42 days prior to starting a formal programme of study can boost learner confidence and help reduce attrition rates.

6 June 2023

Welcome to the AIM Group's Commercial Directorate!

If you are a Recognised AIM Centre , it is very likely that the work of our dedicated Commercial Directorate has contributed to you joining us.

2 June 2023

5 Top Tips for creating a portfolio.

We give you the top tips for creating a portfolio ready for your end-point assessment.

1 June 2023

Seven simple steps to raise awareness of sustainability with learners

Jill Minter considers different options to raise awareness of sustainability with learners without causing eco-anxiety amongst young people.

12 May 2023

Look What’s New – Level 3 Diploma for Animal Welfare Officers (England)

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Diploma for Animal Welfare Officers (England) qualification is now available for registrations.

12 May 2023

Look What’s New – Level 3 Certificate for Animal Licencing Inspectors (England)

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Diploma for Animal Licencing Inspectors (England) qualification is now available for registrations.

4 May 2023

Coaching in the Workplace

Coaching has never been more necessary than now and into the future.

3 May 2023

Dog Grooming: Why get qualified and top four tips for choosing a training centre

Demand in the UK dog grooming market has risen significantly over the last few years with more homeowners adopting dogs during the Covid-19 pandemic.

20 April 2023

Flexi-job apprenticeships

AIM Assessment has recently partnered with a new flexi-job apprenticeship agency, ‘Power Up Agency’, a Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce project, who are specialists in supporting the creative and cultural sectors.

6 April 2023

2023 Finalists for EPAO Industry Awards

AIM Assessment has again been shortlisted for ‘Specialist Sector EPAO of the Year Award’ by the Federation of Awarding Bodies.

5 April 2023

Live Event Technicians: Top 5 skills

Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular route into the events’ industry, with more than 500 Event Assistant apprentices entering the workplace between 2017 and 2021

4 April 2023

AIMing high with a great customer experience

Michelle Stevenson interduces AIM's Customer Experience team

3 April 2023

Post-16 Reform: What it means for AIM Qualifications

Following the review of post-16 qualifications, the Department for Education (DfE) has started to implement its plan for a new, streamlined qualifications system for students aged 16 and over.  There will be two routes for students to choose from.

3 April 2023

AIM eLearning for 16-19 Study Programmes, Tutorials and Enrichment

AIM eLearning and Capital Tutorials are offering an unprecedented opportunity for 2023/24

3 April 2023

How Functional Skills help centres support learners

Fabienne Bailey, Interim Director for Business Growth and Transformation talks about a new suite of qualifications that will help centres to support learners with the fundamental skills in English, Maths and ICT.

16 March 2023

Taking a stand for a better built environment with retrofit

14 March 2023

Celebrating apprenticeship success at prestigious SCCB awards ceremony

13 March 2023

Corporate members of Association of Apprentices

We are pleased to announce our corporate membership with the Association of Apprentices.

7 March 2023

Look What’s New – Level 2 Award in Understanding Domestic Retrofit

We are pleased to announce that our Level 2 Award in Understanding Domestic Retrofit qualification is now available to AIM for registrations.

1 March 2023

Retrofit Training and Professional Development: 5 Reasons to get AIM Qualified

AIM, in partnership with the Retrofit Academy developed a suite of retrofit qualifications to impact on the training, retrofit professionals require.

1 March 2023

Assistant Recording Technician: Top tips for Gateway

Dave Tracey, AIM EPA Assessor for the Assistant Recording Technician apprenticeship standard, gives us his 5 top tips to prepare for Gateway.

1 March 2023

Assistant Recording Technician: Preparing for your Assessments

Dave Tracey, AIM Assistant Recording Technician EPA Assessor, gives us his tips to prepare for apprenticeship assessments.

1 February 2023

Forest School – the boom in outdoor learning

The Forest Schools qualifications provide an alternative approach which not only supports educational achievement but provides a wealth of “value added” benefits to support individuals navigate the road back to the new norm.

27 January 2023

Look What’s New – Level 4 Certificate in Professional Development (Youth Work)

We are pleased to announce that the following qualification is now available for registrations.

16 December 2022

Seasons Greetings from Group CEO

With the Christmas season approaching, AIM Group CEO - Kevern Kerswell, looks back at the highlights from the past year and looks ahead to the future.

5 December 2022

The Past, the Present and the Future of the events industry

We look at how changes in technology, venues and the pandemic have effected the Past, the Present and the Future of the events industry.

29 November 2022

What’s involved in the development and delivery of end-point assessments?

Our End-point Assessment Director, Debbie Tuisawau, explains a bit more about our approach and the teams involved in End-point assessment.

17 November 2022

Taking AIM at the AoC Conference

The AIM team attended the Association of Colleges (AoC) Annual Conference and Exhibition at the ICC in Birmingham this week.

14 November 2022

Proud sponsors of the NE England Chamber of Commerce ‘Community and CSR inspiring female of the year’

Supporting inspiring females in the North East of England

8 November 2022

The Home Achievement Academy

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group has partnered with the charity Home Group, one of the UK’s largest providers of social housing, health and social care, to help improve the lives of their tenants.

28 October 2022

First Media Production Co-ordinator apprentice passes EPA with AIM

The first Media Production Co-ordinator apprentice, assessed by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group, has successfully completed and passed her end-point assessment (EPA).

25 October 2022

Information for NCRQ learners

FAQs for NCRQ learners updated 4.12.23

20 October 2022

Look What’s New – Level 3 Award in Domestic Retrofit Advice

The AIM Qualifications Level 3 Award in Domestic Retrofit Advice is now live!

17 October 2022

The North East England Development Team

AIM has established an office in the North-East and is committed to enhancing the education and training landscape across the region.

13 October 2022

Three ways for AIM centres to stay safe online

It’s Cyber Security Awareness Month and we’re reminding our centres to take some proactive steps to protect themselves and their learners against cyber-crime this season.

3 October 2022

A word from our CEO

As an introduction to the first AIM Newsletter our CEO, Kevern Kerswell, talks about the past, present and future of AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group

22 September 2022

Former AIM CEO shortlisted for: FAB Individual of The Year

Linda Wyatt, former AIM CEO, was nominated by AIM colleagues in recognition of her (almost) 40 years of service to the FE / Training / Awarding sector.

16 September 2022

Expansion of the AIM Group

On 1 September 2022, AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group merged with Open College Network West Midlands and became one awarding organisation, operating under the name AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

9 September 2022

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022

Statement from Kevern Kerswell

1 September 2022

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group merges with Open College Network West Midlands

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group have merged with Open College Network West Midlands, expanding operations and their portfolio.

1 September 2022

Two becomes one

On 1 September 2022, AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group and Open College Network West Midlands merged and became one organisation and now operate under the name AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

5 August 2022

Ensure the Well-Being of your Viewers with AIM's New Spectator Safety Qualification

Our new qualification in Spectator Safety prepares anyone working, as a safety steward for dealing with incidents during live events.

27 July 2022

How AIM customises qualifications for learners with physical disabilities

With a new Government green paper highlighting a focus on learners with physical disabilities, we look at how our qualifications give centres more flexibility.

6 July 2022

How AIM Qualifications and Overworld Academy are helping to professionalise the world of esport

AIM's Esport Qualifications and Overworld Academy are innovatively offering the qualification to inspire the next generation of esports professionals.

21 June 2022

A Week of Musical Celebration

This week is filled with events celebrating music, the music industry and musical events as World Music Day (21 June) lands loud and strong.

17 June 2022

Learning Disability Week 2022

Learning Disability Week is a time for people living with a learning disability to share their story.

7 June 2022

Merger moves a step closer with the announcement of the CEO designate

Following the announcement of the planned merger between OCNWM and AIM, we are delighted to announce that Kevern Kerswell has been appointed as CEO.

26 April 2022

Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy

AIM Center Lead, Amanda Ibrahim, looks at the government’s sustainability and climate change strategy, and explains why one particular AIM qualification could be a key starting place to introducing environmental education to her centre’s curricula.

22 April 2022

AIM Assessment shortlisted for ‘Specialist Sector EPAO of the Year Award’

The EPA Awards celebrate the achievements of end-point assessment organisations in the past year and AIM’s submission has been recognised for the work it does in the creative and cultural sector.

13 April 2022

What is an EPAO?

In this blog we look at what an EPAO is and how an employer can choose to use AIM Assessment as their EPAO.

12 April 2022

AIM centres can attract more students by delivering free level 3 qualifications in counselling and youth work practice

Many unemployed adults without a level 3 qualification can now access fully funded free level 3 qualifications through the National Skills Fund.

6 April 2022

World Health Day 2022

This World Health Day we’re helping education and training centres provide their learners and future learners with the chance to create a #healthiertomorrow.

5 April 2022

Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed online teaching?

We speak to Kate Hathernell, Head of Learning and Founder at the Interior Designers Hub, about if and how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed online teaching and how educational centres can benefit from online teaching.

30 March 2022

The 5 W’s of Occupational Standards

We take a look at the 5 W's of ooccupational standards to help you understand how they can help you as an apprentice employer.

16 March 2022

DfE working with centres to prevent and address ransomware incidents

8 March 2022

International Women’s Day 2022

"Those who heal, save and feed".

9 February 2022

How flexi-job apprenticeships will change the creative industry forever

To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week we look at the introduction of flexi-job apprenticeships and their effect on the creative industry.

7 February 2022

What is National Apprenticeship Week 2022?

What is National Apprenticeship Week and why should you celebrate it? In our latest news article, we look at this week-long celebration and its theme Build the Future.

21 January 2022

Apprenticeship Awards: Winners

All Spring Media announced as the winners at the prestigious FEWeek & aelp apprenticeship awards ceremony

20 January 2022

UCAS report shows increase in student nurse applications

A recent report published by UCAS in collaboration with Health Education England (HEE) has shown that the COVID-19 Pandemic has been one of the main causes for an increase in student nurse applications.

18 January 2022

AIM reveals new plans for growth

Delivering an ambitious strategic plan

8 December 2021

Bifa 2021 craft winners

AIM EPA Assessor, Steve Bray has won the British Independent Film Award for Effects.

30 November 2021

AIM’s Level 3 Counselling Qualification carries UCAS points

AIM’s Level 3 Certificate in Counselling qualification is one of only a few in the country with UCAS points so learners can choose to use the qualification towards university entry tariffs.

18 October 2021

Meet the team at the AIM team

Meet the team at the AOC conference 16-17 November, Birmingham

15 October 2021

Access to Higher Education Conference 2021

For AIM centres: Those currently delivering the Access to HE Diploma and those who would like to!

7 October 2021

Cyber Security In Education

In this article we talk you through ways that cyber secuirty in education can be ensured and increased.

10 September 2021

EQA activity planning

3 September 2021

Screenskills, Netflix and WarnerMedia apprenticeship pilot uses AIM Assessment as end-point assessment organisation

ScreenSkills, Netflix and WarnerMedia have launched a pilot programme for apprenticeships in the UK’s booming screen industries.

12 August 2021

AIM Qualifications publishes counselling centre survey 2021

AIM Qualifications have recently published a series of counselling surveys for centres offering any qualification within the AIM Qualifications Counselling suite to ensure that the qualifications are valid and up to date.

10 August 2021

A Day in the Life of an End-Point Assessor: Tracey Cousins

Tracey Cousins, a specialist assessor takes us through a typical day in the life of an end-point assessor.

5 August 2021

AIM Qualifications Level 3 Certificate in Counselling now free to eligible adults

The DfE has recently added the AIM Qualifications Level 3 Certificate in Counselling, to a list of qualifications free for eligible learners.

18 July 2021

Esports - the future

In our latest blog, Katharine Pearce talks about the world of esports and how AIM Qualifications has worked with centres like Overworld to create an esports qualification to provide the sport with new professionals.

13 July 2021

New Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries) Launched

The new diploma provides a clear pathway into further education in creative sectors and covers a range of specialisms

21 June 2021

Armed Forces Week 2021

To celebrate Armed Forces Week 2021 we spoke with Petty Officer Ratu Tuisawau, partner of our very own Director of Compliance and Quality Assurance; Debbie Jump.

16 June 2021

AIM’s counselling diploma now offers blended practice option for learners

The new module on ‘blended practice’, will enable learners to develop an understanding of working with clients on-line rather than traditional face to face (in the room) working.

29 May 2021

TES FE Awards 2021: AIM centre shortlist and winners

Congratulations to all AIM centres in this year's TES FE Awards.

18 May 2021

Coronavirus Information Hub

Guidance and advice in relation to new ways of working

14 May 2021

Mental Health Awareness Week 2021

Over the last week our team have been celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week by connecting with the outdoors and taking some amazing photos.

10 May 2021

Are vocational qualifications the new next step?

According to a survey for the Social Market Foundation and Further Education Trust for Leadership, more people would prefer their child to take a vocational qualification than attend university.

15 April 2021

Q&A with QAA’s Julie Mizon

Recently our Moderation Manager, Sally Howard, sat down virtually with QAA’s Access to HE Manager, Julie Mizon for a Q&A session about her experience with Access to HE and the benefits of the qualification.

29 March 2021

AIM Easter Egg Hunt

The Easter Bunny has left eggs around our website and asked us to find them but we need your help.

24 March 2021

ESFA changes in funding

The ESFA has removed funding from some L3 (and below) qualifications

23 March 2021

Ifate launch new survey to seek views on EPA COVID-19 flexibilities

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Institute has helped keep apprenticeships going by introducing flexibilities, which affect the way end-point assessment (EPA) can be carried out. Did these work?

19 March 2021

International Day of Happiness

To celebrate this year's International Day of Happiness, we asked the team to tell us one thing that made them happy outside of work and one thing that made them happy inside of work.

8 March 2021

International Women’s Day 2021 #ChooseToChallenge - Liza-Jo

Liza-Jo talks about how a conversation on the bus in 1996 changed her life forever.

8 March 2021

International Women’s Day 2021 #ChooseToChallenge - Linda Wyatt

Linda Wyatt talks openly about how her experiences of working in a male dominated sector have shaped her thoughts as CEO of AIM Group.

15 February 2021

Skills for combating loneliness in young people

AIM’s L2 and L3 Youth Work qualifications have been updated to include new Level 2 and Level 3 components on tackling loneliness and isolation in young people.

3 February 2021

New dates for training, clinics and workshops starting January 2021

New events have been added to our 2021 training and events calendar for AIM centres

3 February 2021

A day in the Life of an End-Point Assessment Delivery Officer: Gabi Brown

Gabi Brown, End-Point Assessment Delivery Officer, our very own Disney princess, talks about her day at AIM.

27 November 2020

The “magic” of Access to Higher Education

Sally Howard, our Moderations Manager, believes in giving people a second chance at education. Here she talks about her experiences of Access to Higher Education diplomas.

16 October 2020

AIMVOC Inclusivity at its best!

Sue Benton says "AIMVOC allows a ‘non-threatening’ approach to learning that builds confidence and skills for every learner"

13 October 2020

A plea from the Creative Industries Federation Team

The Creative Industries Federation team has today put out a plea for its members to raise awareness of this world-leading sector and to seek continued investment...

6 October 2020

AIMVOCs - For all learners

How do you ensure that learners who fall outside the national curriculum get good support for their educational and vocational development?

30 September 2020

DfE launches support for schools and colleges

The Support Service is an extensive support package to help schools and colleges with essential additional costs associated with running autumn exams

29 September 2020

New qualifications added to the AIM portfolio

New and updated qualification are introduced to the AIM Qualifications portfolio

16 September 2020

The Department for Education publishes guidance on their Exam Support Service.

The DfE has published guidance on their Exam Support Service. The arrangements cover Access to HE, GQ and VTQ qualifications.

14 September 2020

QAA update on numerical marking for the Access to HE Diploma

QAA have provided an update to AHE providers on changes to their marking system for Access to HE Diploma.

18 August 2020

Centre Assessment Grades announcement– impact on VTQs

Centre assessment grades (CAGs) will apply to GCSE and A level results in England, overriding grades that have been determined using a statistical model.

23 July 2020

Access to HE Diploma (Animal Science) launched

The Access to HE Diploma (Animal Science) is the latest qualification to be developed by AIM, in conjunction with a number of HEIs. This latest diploma is aimed at students wanting to gain the skills and knowledge to access undergraduate degrees within th

6 July 2020

Creative industries to receive Government support package

The Federation responds to the announcement of an unprecedented £1.57 billion package to protect UK’s creative industries

17 June 2020

Protect our Creative Industries

The Creative Industries Federation are calling on government for a Cultural Renewal Fund for those who’ve been hit hardest.

21 April 2020

Post-Production Apprenticeship for Technical Operators Launched

The Show Must Go On - Post-Production Apprenticeship Launches Despite Covid-19

19 March 2020

Additional guidance for student teachers on DET courses disrupted due to Covid 19

A statement from the Department of Education regarding DET courses disrupted due to Covid 19 and further education initial teacher education - advice

10 March 2020

AIM Qualifications development: Level 2 award in Psychological Understanding and Responding to Trauma

AIM Qualifications is developing an introductory qualification looking at trauma and how therapeutic practice can be used when working with individuals who have experienced trauma.

25 February 2020

AIM Qualifications in Counselling Skills, levels 2 and 3, are now designated for teaching in Wales by Qualifications Wales

AIM Qualifications' are proud to announce that our level 2 and 3 certificates in Counselling Skills are now designated by Qualifications Wales.

21 February 2020

Why did employers want a Level 3 course in Games, Animation and VFX Skills, and has it had the anticipated impact?

6 February 2020

Additional government funding will support AIM programmes

The (ESFA) are offering funds to providers who encourage the study of skills vital to the success of the economy.

20 January 2020

Why AIMINVESTING IN YOUR FUTURE is good for business

In this month's blog Katharine Pearce explains why many AIM centres are also adopting the IF kitemerk

13 January 2020

AIM congratulates partners shortlisted for 2020 TES FE Awards

AIM Qualifications and Assessment would like to congratulate all partners, centres, employers and trainers who are shortlisted for this year’s TES FE Awards.

6 January 2020

Meet the AIM team UK roadshow 2020

The AIM Roadshow is travelling the country and hoping to meet with as many centres as possible

18 December 2019

Call for employers to join an employer-led external quality assurance of apprenticeships

NSAR has issued an invitation to employers to join the ScreenSkills Apprenticeship Board

21 October 2019

Attracting and retaining industry experts to deliver end-point assessment (a case study)

Phil Golding, Employer Partnership Manager at Strategic Development Network (SDN) talks to Delia Antoine Burdett, a PR and Comms professional (and now end-point assessor with AIM Assessment) to find out about her journey…

8 October 2019

Transform the skills landscape in England

Sir Gerry Berragan, CEO of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, speaking at the Skills and Employability Forum in London.

27 September 2019

Career coach puts Access to HE students on the right path

QAA has launched Career Coach, an online tool that helps match prospective students with the Access to HE programme that best supports their professional ambitions

26 September 2019

AIM expands its end-point assessment expertise in the creative and cultural industries

AIM is expanding its team and EPA portfolio

10 September 2019

Launch day

Lindsay Cooper, Chair of AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group marks the official name change from AIM Awards.

27 August 2019

Are EPA costs too high?

Karen Hedger investigates why the price of EPA seem quite high in relation to the funding band

14 August 2019

New look AIM

As from 2 September 2019, AIM Awards became AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group, shortened to AIM for simplicity with a new brand and logo.

13 August 2019

Proud sponsors of the Skills & Employability Summit 2019

Join us in London on Thursday 26 September at the Victoria Park Plaza

9 August 2019

Removal of qualification funding by the Government

The Telegraph stated 'the Department for Education announces funding is to be removed for some vocational qualifications', but is this fake news?

18 February 2019

Why Aspire chose AIM for Access to HE Diplomas

AIM Awards offers an Access to HE model that is hard to beat

13 December 2018

AIM eLearning courses are now available

AIM Awards Education is proud to release a number of eLearning materials to help prepare learners for assessment.

29 August 2018

AIM Awards Assessment has been awarded a research grant to consider effective delivery of the End Point Assessment

24 August 2018

Expiring AIM Awards Qualifications - 31st December 2018

A number of AIM Awards qualifications will be withdrawn from new learner registrations on 31st December 2018.

14 August 2018

Coming soon…

We are excited to release our three new suites of Level 2 Creative Industries Qualifications

13 August 2018

AIM Awards Level 1 Youth Work Practice Qualifications

Our Level 1 Youth Work Practice qualifications are the starting point for everyone who is looking to become a qualified Youth Worker

6 August 2018

Games, Animation and VFX Skills Qualifications

These AIM qualifications are designed to develop the next generation of talent for the Games, Animation and VFX industries.

16 July 2018

AIMVOCs in Transport and Logistics

We are excited to announce that AIMVOCs in Transport and Logistics qualifications will be available from 1st August 2018 and may be eligible for public funding

17 April 2018

Counselling Qualifications - Extension 2018-2019

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Awards Suite of Counselling qualifications have been extended for the 2018/19 academic year.

12 March 2018

Qualification Update - February 18

25 February 2018

AIM Awards launches into ESports

We have been pleased to support AIM Awards students at Sunderland College

10 October 2017

AIMVOCs & SEFL Important Information

AIMVOCs & SEFL Flyer

1 September 2017

Counselling Standardisation & Review

Aimed at centres who are currently using the AIM Awards Counselling Qualifications at any level.

21 August 2017

FAB Finalists 2018

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for Awarding Organisation of the year.

30 May 2017

New Qualifications Available for 19+ Loans!

We are pleased to announce that a number of AIM Awards qualifications are eligible for Advanced Learner Loans!

12 April 2017

Qualification Extended until 2022

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Awards Level 3 Award in Clinical Skills: Venipuncture (601/2135/X) qualification has been extended for new learner registrations with a review date of 31st July 2022.

5 April 2017

AIM Awards Student Wins the Keith Fletcher 'Outstanding Academic Achievement' Award

4 April 2017

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

22 February 2017

Your Questions Answered on the RQF

We have compiled a list of useful FAQs on the RQF Transfer of AIM Awards Qualifications.

13 February 2017

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

21 November 2016

We have moved!

We are delighted to announce that we have moved to our fantastic new premises at Derby Pride Park!

15 November 2016

New Pathways Available in AIM Awards Skills for the Creative Industries Qualifications at Level 2

New pathways available in Digital Careers, Games Design and Screen and Media Production.

30 September 2016

We are Winners!

We're delighted to announce that we are finalists at the FAB Awards for Qualification of the Year!

28 September 2016

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

We are pleased to announce that a new bank of units have been added to the AIM Awards Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) qualifications and are available for centres.

15 September 2016

AIM Awards Fees and Charges Catalogue 16/17

We are pleased to publish the AIM Awards Fees and Charges Catalogue for 16/17. Click here!

8 August 2016

Withdrawn Qualifications

Following on from recent requests from Ofqual, we have withdrawn a number of unused AIM Awards qualifications with a last new learner registration date of 30/09/2016.

20 July 2016

Funding for 2016/17

Did you know we have a large number of qualifications and units available for 16-18 and 19+ funding in 2016/17? Our useful guidance and qualification lists are now available!

18 July 2016

AIM Awards Agenda Newsletter Issue One

Welcome to our special conference edition of our new AIM Awards 'agenda' Newsletter!

18 July 2016

AIM Awards Conference Presentations

Thank you to everyone who attended our annual conference earlier this month. Our workshops were well received and it was great to share our exciting new brands with you.

13 July 2016

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

We are pleased to announce that a new bank of units have been added to the AIM Awards Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) qualifications and are available for centres.

9 June 2016

It's an AIM thing...

We are incredibly pleased to announce our new brand of AIM Awards qualifications and products.

7 June 2016

New Qualifications Available for 19+ Loans!

We’re delighted to announce that, as the Skills Funding Agency update the Advanced Learner Loans Catalogue for 2016-2017, we now have further qualifications available for funding.

5 May 2016

Your AIM Awards Superhero, AIMee!

We are pleased to introduce to you AIMee, our newest member of staff and AIM Awards Superhero!

26 April 2016

Meet Gina Our Keynote Speaker for our 2016 Conference

A pen portrait of our Conference Keynote Speaker Gina Jackson.

26 April 2016

AIM Awards response to the Adult Education Budget Funding Guidance

Overview of the AEB and the changes for 2016/17

5 April 2016

Games, Animation and VFX Skills and UCAS Points

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Awards Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills (QCF) qualification has been approved by UCAS to carry admission points to support university applications.

10 February 2016

“Finding diamonds in the rough and helping them shine” - our response to David Cameron’s speech on prison reforms

David Cameron recently announced plans to reform prisons

5 February 2016

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

We are pleased to announce that a new bank of units have been added to the AIM Awards Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) qualifications and are available for centres.

3 February 2016

New Dates in Derby and London for Introduction to Internal Quality Assurance Training

We are pleased to announce that we are running another Introduction to Internal Quality Assurance Training event!

28 January 2016

Counselling Placements in the Children and Young People Sector

Unlike some Awarding Organisations, we have no restrictions on placements in the children and young people sector...

5 January 2016

New Qualification: Bio-Hazards Cleaning

We are pleased to announce the launch of the AIM Awards Level 2 Award in Bio-Hazards Cleaning qualification!

14 October 2015

Moving Just Got Easier

Find out more about our Change Over Champions

7 October 2015

Gradetraka

AIM Awards is thrilled to announce the launch of our new bespoke online system Gradetraka.

5 October 2015

NextGen Skills Aacademy Celebrates Successful Launch Of Brand New Level 3 Diploma

NextGen Skills Academy’s first qualification in Games, Animation and VFX Skills being taught in colleges now

28 September 2015

SFA funding for Entry Level qualifications and many more!

We are pleased to announce that the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) has approved the following AIM Awards qualifications for adult funding for the academic year 2015/16.

23 September 2015

Next Gen Qualifications Off To A Great Start

We love to hear from providers running AIM Awards qualifications and NESCOT recently sent us the following message.

14 September 2015

New Year, New Faces

Meet our new Director of Business and Director of Quality

3 August 2015

New Units Added to the Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) Qualifications

We are pleased to announce that a new bank of units have been added to the AIM Awards Suite of Skills for Employment and Further Learning (SEFL) (QCF) qualifications and are available for centres.

14 July 2015

AIM Awards Cleaning Qualifications Approved For SFA Funding In 2015/2016

We are pleased to announce that the AIM Awards Suite of Cleaning (QCF) Qualifications have been approved by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) for adult funding for the 2015/2016 academic year.

13 July 2015

AIM Awards Gains Low Risk QAA Rating

AIM Awards is delighted to announce that in our recent QAA review of our Access to HE Licence provision, we have been rated low risk.

2 July 2015

AIM Awards Customer Survey

We would appreciate if you could take a few minutes to answer some questions regarding your experience with us as an awarding organisation.

30 June 2015

Digital Agency Bridges Skills Gap With A Pioneering Apprenticeship Sheme

Sift, one of the largest digital agencies in Bristol, have launched a web development apprenticeship scheme to tackle a severe shortage of candidates for technical roles.

16 June 2015

Annual Conference 2015 Presentations

Please find all of the presentations for the AIM Awards Annual Conference 2015 below.

26 May 2015

New Innovative Approach for International Qualification Gets AIM Awards Approval

International Medical Education (IMEUK) has been granted the Ofqual recognised, Level 3 qualification for the Diploma in Medical Studies through AIM Awards.

18 May 2015

Pre-Access Funded Qualifications for 2015/16

We are pleased to announce a range of AIM Award qualifications at Level 2 which have been designed to prepare learners for the demands of the QAA Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma have been approved by Ofqual and will be available from June 2015.

23 April 2015

AIM for Progression: Tips from your Curriculum Support Team

Employability Programme Design: How to choose your funded units

16 April 2015

SFA Approval for 2015/16 Funding of AIM Awards Entry 3 and Level 1 SEFL and other qualifications!

We are pleased to announce that the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) has approved the following AIM Awards qualifications for adult funding for the academic year 2015/16

11 March 2015

AIM Supports Keith Fletcher Memorial National Access Prize

The Keith Fletcher Memorial National Access Prize was created after the tragic passing of Mr Fletcher, formerly the Director of OCN South West Region and a great supporter of Access to Higher Education.

11 March 2015

SFA Funding confirmed for the AIM Awards Counselling qualifications in 15-16

The Skills Funding Agency (SFA) has now published the catalogue spreadsheet detailing those qualifications which are funded for 2015/16 for learners aged 19+

5 January 2015

We are friendly - we have worked with the Beehive Northampton to create an Entry Level Curriculum that meets their needs

The Bee Hive, part of Northgate School Arts College in Northampton, is a post-16 school catering for learners with Special Educational Needs. It is home to real-life work environments that are open to the general public including a café and shop, an anima

5 January 2015