The challenge

Bradford College was already delivering high-quality apprenticeship programmes, but identifying and supporting learners with additional cognitive needs was a significant challenge. Without an effective system in place, some learners struggled to fully engage with employers or develop the key skills needed to progress through their apprenticeships. The college wanted to provide earlier, more tailored support to help learners achieve sustained employment and transform their lives — a mission that aligned perfectly with their values.

  • Difficulty identifying learners with additional cognitive needs early in their journey.
  • Barriers to learner engagement and progression within apprenticeship programmes.
  • Limited ability to deliver personalised, evidence-based support before learners started.

The solution

By introducing Cognassist, Bradford College transformed how it identifies, evidences, and supports learners across its entire apprenticeship and adult learning provision. Cognassist’s digital cognitive assessment became a cornerstone of their new initial assessment centre, ensuring every learner’s unique needs are identified from day one. The platform enables staff to build personalised support plans and continuously review progress throughout the learning journey. This streamlined approach has extended beyond apprenticeships into Community Adult and Access programmes, ensuring that every learner benefits from a consistent, data-driven support process.