Baltic Apprenticeships is proud to announce a landmark achievement following a recent full audit by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA), in which the organisation received a 0.00% error rate across its learner sample – the highest standard possible.
Rigorous Review and Flawless Results
This audit, which took place in early 2025, marked the first full ESFA review of Baltic’s apprenticeship delivery in several years. Following a detailed period of preparation throughout January and early February, the ESFA auditor was on site during February to conduct an in-depth assessment of Baltic’s use of apprenticeship funding, data integrity, and overall compliance with regulatory requirements.
The result was a “Satisfactory” opinion on the use of public funds – the highest judgement available – paired with an impeccable 0.00% error rate. While the term “Satisfactory” may sound modest, it signifies complete compliance and the absence of any reportable errors or funding issues.
Baltic Apprenticeships continues to stand out as a provider that goes beyond simply meeting the standard. With a strong reputation for quality, integrity, and operational excellence, this result further cements Baltic’s role as a leader in the apprenticeship sector. Reflecting on the achievement, Ian Barrett, Director of Support Services at Baltic Apprenticeships, said:
“This accolade is more than a milestone – it’s validation of the standards we set for ourselves every day. A 0.00% error rate in an ESFA audit is a huge achievement that represents the collective dedication of our people to compliance.
In a sector that depends on public trust and funding, this result sends a powerful message: Baltic is a provider that employers, learners, and stakeholders can have complete confidence in. It proves that quality isn’t just something we talk about – it’s something we live and deliver every single day.”
Praise from the ESFA
Throughout the audit process, the ESFA auditor provided high praise for Baltic’s approach. Although formal audit reports do not include qualitative comments, verbal feedback described Baltic’s data as “immaculate” and the audit itself as “one of the best, if not the best, I’ve ever been involved in.” The auditor further remarked that organisations of Baltic’s size typically present a long list of errors, and that there was much other providers could learn from Baltic’s systems, processes, and culture of compliance.
Setting a Sector Benchmark
Baltic’s exceptional outcome is the result of a long-standing commitment to internal quality assurance and rigorous audit preparation. The Internal Audit Team, led by Lynsey Williams and supported by Ben Carter and Matt Ward, played a central role in achieving this result. Their ongoing work to strengthen internal controls, deliver staff training, and create a culture of shared accountability across the organisation laid the groundwork for this success.
This audit result also reflects the collective effort of the entire Baltic team. Staff across the business demonstrated professionalism and responsiveness throughout the process, following compliance procedures diligently and working collaboratively with the audit team. The result is a true team achievement that reinforces Baltic’s position as a high-performing, trusted apprenticeship provider.
In an increasingly scrutinised sector, Baltic’s audit results set a benchmark for quality. It confirms the organisation’s dedication to safeguarding public funds, protecting its reputation, and delivering high-quality apprenticeship experiences for both learners and employers.
About Baltic Apprenticeships
Baltic Apprenticeships is an Ofsted Outstanding independent training provider, dedicated to delivering high-quality education and training to aspiring professionals. The company is committed to preparing career starters, career changers, and career advancers for a successful future. Baltic Apprenticeships was the first training provider to offer a completely tech-focused and tech-driven learning solution and offer a wealth of experience and support to both learners and employers.
Visit https://www.balticapprenticeships.com/
-ENDS-
For more information about Baltic Apprenticeships, please contact:
Lydia Chilton
Content Marketing Lead
Lydia.Chilton@balticapprenticeships.com