HIT Training and CPL collaborate to launch STAR

21-Mar-2018 - Last updated on 21-Mar-2018 at 16:14 GMT

Learning first: STAR is claimed to be the first training programme built to match the apprenticeship levy

HIT Training and CPL Training have joined forces to launch a new virtual learning environment designed to provide hospitality apprentices with access to high-quality learning facilities.

Support Training Assessment Resources, or STAR, is the first apprenticeship training programme that has been built specifically to match the requirements of the apprenticeship levy and new apprenticeship standards.

Using digital technology, STAR enables different styles of learning with all tasks mapped to new criteria. Apprentices can upload course material to an ePortfolio and share it with their HIT trainer for feedback.

STAR has three main components: an intranet with access to news feeds and social media; a suite of learning resources and supporting documentation; and an online portfolio where apprentices can record their progress.

The platform also hosts a messaging system and online forums that can be used as virtual classrooms or for peer-to-peer support.

Resources at the touch of a button

Catherine Whittaker, virtual learning environment coordinator at HIT Training, said: “HIT is a company built on sound knowledge and understanding of the hospitality sector. The whole team has been involved in the development and launch of STAR, from specialists writing material that supports apprentices and quality assessors training our delivery teams, to individuals coming on board to test the system and assisting the core STAR team.

“STAR is a unique virtual learning platform that is simple to use, yet built using complex data to enable real-time analysis of the apprentices’ progress – providing insight on how we can support them further.

“We’ve developed STAR in partnership with CPL to provide our apprentices with all the resources they need at the touch of a button, from their initial sign-up through to their end-point assessment. Together with CPL, we’re passionate about the learning experience and the system we’ve produced.”

Maximising user experience and real-time engagement

CPL Training Group chief executive Dan Davies added: “STAR is an innovative new platform that is set to revolutionise the delivery of HIT’s apprenticeships.

“It’s been developed in a way that maximises user experience and real-time engagement, allowing apprentices to contribute to forums, receive trainer feedback, and upload learning evidence.

“The STAR platform is demonstrative of HIT’s mission to provide only the best apprenticeships for clients and their employees, helping to create a skilled, high-calibre hospitality workforce. We’re delighted to have worked on this project for HIT, and we look forward to building on our working relationship.”