New Chairs for apprenticeship oversight groups
New Chairs have been appointed to the two bodies responsible for the standards, frameworks and approval of Scottish Apprenticeships.
Dr. Jacqueline Hall will assume the position of Chair for the Standards and Frameworks Group (SFG), with Vice-Chair Ruth Jennings supporting her. Meanwhile, Jen Davies and Rohaise Rose-Bristow will jointly lead the Apprenticeship Approvals Group (AAG) as Co-chairs.
About the Groups
The SFG oversee apprenticeship standards and framework development and governance for apprenticeships in Scotland and ensure they are demand and employer-led. It also ensures standards and frameworks are aligned with industry, economic growth, job and progression opportunities and that include development of transferable skills which allow smooth transitions to emerging and new roles.
The AAG has responsibility for approving all Scottish apprenticeships. It is an employer-led group aimed at ensuring Scottish apprenticeships meet the needs of employers.
Dr Jacqueline Hall is Head of Apprenticeships and Skills at BAE Systems. She has been involved in apprenticeship design and delivery both in England & Scotland for more than 10 years, in the development of standards to meet industry needs, qualifications, synoptic assessment, underpinned by inspection and evaluation experience.
She said: “I am passionate about the need for high quality apprenticeships that meet not only the needs of business now and in the future, but importantly create life chances and opportunities for all.”
Ruth Jennings is currently Skills Consultant at the Rugby Players Association, bringing over 20 years experience in the skills sector to the role. Her career has included roles as a provider, assessor, internal verifier, and member of leadership teams. Most recently, Ruth led the Skills Development function at Sainsbury’s/Argos, overseeing Apprenticeships, professional qualifications, and early careers programs. Ruth brings a wealth of industry knowledge, insights from chairing the AAG Group since 2019, and seven years as a member of the S&F Group.
She said: “My aim is to build on the strong foundations already in place, focusing on creating impactful, high-quality solutions for apprentices and businesses while ensuring a sustainable approach for all stakeholders. The nation is currently facing significant challenges in skills development, and I’m committed to contributing to a more effective system that adapts to this evolving landscape.”
Jen Davies is the Strategic Workforce Renewals Manager for SP Energy Networks (SPEN). Her role within SPEN involves overseeing and implementing the workforce renewals strategy including forecasting and planning for future skills requirements through the development of trainee programmes including apprenticeships.
She said: “As an employer, I am excited to take up the role of joint chair of AAG and champion the development of apprenticeships across the sectors to support the future skills challenge.”
Rohaise Rose-Bristow, Co-Owner of The Torridon for the last 25 years, has been involved in apprenticeships for the past 8 years as Chair and Committee Member of Apprenticeship Hospitality Scotland. She is also a member of the SAAB Group Board and chaired the Hospitality TEG group last year.
She said: “I hope my commitment, passion and dedication will support the continued value and relevance of apprenticeships for Scotland as part of the future of further education.”