During 2024/25, KATO has continued to provide its members with four network meetings, two of which were held in person and two online, maintaining the hybrid approach that members have found most valuable. These meetings remain a key opportunity to share sector updates, best practice and CPD opportunities. The January network meeting again incorporated the AGM, offering members a financial overview as well as the opportunity to elect committee members. We continue to encourage member organisations to put themselves forward for committee roles to ensure the network is shaped and led by its members. Alongside these meetings, the monthly newsletter and regular communications have continued to provide members with timely updates, spotlight successes, and showcase activity across the network. Additional CPD events were also delivered during the year, covering safeguarding best practice, apprenticeship CPD and wider sector developments. Directors and the Network Manager met bimonthly, followed by committee meetings, to ensure that information flows effectively and decisions are member-led. The committee remains committed to representing KATO across education and skills boards, ensuring members’ voices are heard at local and regional levels. The annual Kent and Medway Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony broke records yet again at a packed Rochester Cathedral in October 2024. The full house of over 800 guests bore witness to a wonderful celebration of more than 200 of the county’s apprentice talents, with the Class of 2024. Looking ahead, the 2025 Ceremony aims to be even bigger. The website commissioned in 2023 continues to develop as a valuable members’ hub, supporting information-sharing, resources, and collaboration. In addition to these core activities, 2024/25 has seen KATO strengthen its strategic focus through the creation of two dedicated subgroups of the committee, tasked with driving forward the strategic plan. These subgroups have focused on: Building partnerships with local authorities, chambers of commerce, regulatory bodies and industry associations to extend reach and influence. Identifying funding and business opportunities for Independent Training Providers, including sharing opportunities through newsletters and hosting webinars and workshops. Enhancing membership retention and growth, including exploring referral schemes, member-driven events, and exclusive opportunities. Supporting members through intelligence and CPD by sharing sector insights, hosting expert-led webinars, and expanding the resource hub. Exploring new income streams through grants and tenders, building relationships with funders, and fostering collaborative applications. This enhanced strategic focus ensures that while continuing to provide the core network, communication and CPD activities our members value, KATO is also building long-term resilience, influence, and opportunities for members.

Stakeholders Primary stakeholders: KATO members. Wider stakeholders: strategic partners and regional organisations (e.g. LSIP, AELP, Ofsted, local authorities). Consultation methods AGM and January network meeting: financial overview, voting on committee membership, welcomed three new committee members in 2024/25. Member surveys and regular feedback gathered throughout the year. Ongoing one-to-one engagement with the Network Manager. Network meetings include regular opportunities for discussion, sector updates, and external speakers. Monthly newsletter and communications, including member spotlights to showcase achievements and best practice. Actions taken in response Maintained a hybrid model of in-person and online network meetings in line with member preferences. Increased focus on income generation, sector intelligence, and best practice sharing. Developed regular spotlight features and CPD opportunities in response to member demand. Shared member perspectives with strategic partners and cascaded sector intelligence back to the membership.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration