External standards

We're independently reviewed to uphold the highest standards and drive continual improvement.

We understand and comply with all our legal requirements, but there are a number of other areas we have identified as important to go above and beyond what is being done in our sector.

Our processes and programmes are scrutinised by external experts

Attaining and retaining these external certifications also gives us constant feedback and the opportunity to continually improve.

Ofsted

In October 2024, we had a full Ofsted inspection which resulted in a "Good" grade for overall effectiveness, and an "Outstanding" for Personal Development. This result reflects the improvements we have made as part of our Quality Improvement Plan.

The review covered over 8,000 apprentices in accountancy, tax, financial services, and data and technology from levels 2 to 7. Kaplan also provides a wide range of other courses.

Key report highlights:

The report noted that “apprentices and employers value the knowledge and skills apprentices learn”, which helps them “prepare for work and contribute to their organisations.”
Ofsted found Kaplan’s curriculum to be “logically ordered,” with a “calm and comfortable learning environment.
The report praised Kaplan's approach, noting that “talent coaches work with employers to embed on and off the job training” and “tutors use teaching strategies effectively in well-organised sessions to help apprentices learn substantial new knowledge and skills.”
It also recognised that “apprentices value their learning experience” and “become credible and competent professionals.”

A copy of the report can be found on the Ofsted website.

"We are extremely proud of this result and gratified that it reflects Kaplan’s strong commitment to placing learners at the forefront of our apprenticeship provision."

Management standards

Information security management

We take the responsibility to manage and protect the confidentiality, integrity and availability of your data very seriously. To reassure the effectiveness of our Information Security and Data Management program, we maintain the following externally audited accreditation:

ISO/IEC 27001
This is the world's best-known standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).
Cyber Essentials Plus
This is the UK Government-backed scheme that helps us protect against a range of common cyber threats and demonstrate our commitment to cyber security to external auditors.

Business continuity management

We are audited on an annual basis to ensure we are aligned with ISO 22301. We have won awards regarding our learner support during the COVID period.

Matrix accreditation

We are proud to hold the matrix accreditation, the international quality standard owned by the Department for Education, recognising our excellence in careers information, advice and guidance, and well-being support. This status was affirmed during our November 2025 annual monitoring visit, where the assessor commented: “If matrix had a rating approach, you’d represent the gold standard.”

Quality Assurance Agency rating

In recognition of the high-quality standards we hold ourselves to, the Quality Assurance Agency awarded us with their highest rating in November 2023. A copy of the report can be found on the QAA website. In particular, they praised:

MyKaplan
Our MyKaplan learning platform continues to be a strong asset, with recent enhancements that offer additional tools for professional development and essential skills. Students appreciate its flexibility and the effective hybrid learning model.
Teaching and Support Staff
Our teaching and support staff are dedicated to providing effective learning experiences and personalised support. The expansion of our educational support team ensures that students receive the help they need.
Commitment to Quality
We have introduced a new Quality Assurance Policy and initiatives like Project Compass to ensure continuous improvement in our educational offerings. Regular programme reviews and feedback from students inform our development efforts.
Effective Communication and Support
Kaplan is committed to using student feedback to enhance the learning experience. Our Talent Coaches provide tailored support, helping students succeed throughout their programmes.
Student Engagement
Our governance structure, including the Apprenticeship Advisory Panel, ensures that student voices are heard and contribute to ongoing programme improvements.