Background

1st2 Achieve Training has been delivering apprenticeships since 2018 and Skills Bootcamps since 2022, while also acting as a sub-contractor for the adult education programme. They work directly with the Department for Education (DfE) and are required to submit information to prime funders, so having an effective way to manage data and reporting is central to their operations.

The Challenge

When they first started delivering programmes, 1st2 Achieve Training relied on the DfE ILR entry tool. This was very much a case of working with what they had, but it limited their ability to analyse and present data effectively. Reporting to the board on timely achievements and learner demographics was particularly difficult.

 The Solution

CogniSoft streamlined ILR reporting for 1st2 Achieve Training, allowing them to break down demographics and other insights. The system enabled them to report more effectively while remaining compliant with funding rules. Importantly, the flexibility of CogniSoft’s software meant they could customise the areas they wanted to focus on.

Why choose CogniSoft?

The team trialled a few different systems and attended several demos, but it was the ease of use of CogniSoft’s platform that stood out. 

The way the system aligned with funding rules, alongside the level of support offered, made the decision straightforward. CogniSoft also had a simple, practical process for requesting amendments, which set them apart from other providers.

Benefits of working with CogniSoft?

One of the biggest benefits for 1st2 Achieve Training has been the support they receive. With many staff having over 15 years’ experience in the sector, they have used multiple platforms and found other providers less flexible or less responsive to feedback. CogniSoft, by contrast, listens to suggestions and continually improves the system to make the user experience better.

Having Chloe Atkinson as their Account Manager has also been invaluable. She checks in regularly, not to upsell, but to ensure the system is meeting their needs and to share ideas that may help. The support team is equally proactive, reviewing suggestions every two weeks and discussing how best to act on them.

Stand out moment

The first impression of CogniSoft’s system was how intuitive it felt compared to other platforms. It was clear from the outset that the software had been designed with funding rules in mind, and that the company took a straightforward, client-first approach to support.

How has your experience with CogniSoft been so far?

The team at 1st2 Achieve Training describe their experience as overwhelmingly positive. Nothing is too much trouble, and a solution is always offered that either meets their needs or matches as closely as possible in line with DfE funding rules.