The challenge
Brighter Horizons, an independent training provider, wanted to ensure that every learner received meaningful support while navigating increasing demands around compliance and inclusion. Before introducing Cognassist, Additional Learning Support (ALS) provision lacked consistency, and the organisation was cautious about confidently claiming Learning Support Funding (LSF).
- Elevate the learning support given to apprentices
- Gain confidence in evidencing processes for funding compliance
We had ALS learners, but we weren’t fully equipped to support them in the way they needed. I wanted to do better for our learners and for us as a provider.
— Sam Page, Head of Education and Quality, Brighter Horizons
The solution
Implementation
Determined to raise the standard of support, Brighter Horizons partnered with Cognassist. The implementation was designed to create a seamless experience for both staff and learners. Each learner completes Cognassist’s evidence-based cognitive assessment, followed by structured discussions to explore results and agree next steps.
I meet with learners on a monthly basis to review their Cognassist modules and focus on developing the specific skills identified. This approach not only strengthens our professional relationship but also allows us to provide highly tailored, effective support.
— Chantelle, SENCo, Brighter Horizons
These insights enable the team to create targeted learning support plans that reflect each learner’s unique needs and goals.
Impact
The positive impact was evident from the start. Learners reported feeling valued and supported:
I feel listened to, I feel understood, and I can see that my needs are being supported.
— Learner, Brighter Horizons
Tutors also benefited from Cognassist’s clear, practical recommendations:
The strategies in Cognassist reports, like writing scaffolds, have been game-changing. As a team, we developed resources from those suggestions, which has had a huge impact on our assessments and the way we break down learning.
— Tutor, Brighter Horizons
Administrative processes became more efficient, freeing up time for direct learner support:
Workload-wise, it’s much smoother. I no longer have to search for information. I can simply attach the learning support plan and Cognassist assessment, and everything is clear and ready to go.
— Chantelle, SENCo, Brighter Horizons
Employers also noticed the benefits, with feedback seamlessly integrated into progress reviews and broader learner planning.
Results
Within eight months of implementing Cognassist, Brighter Horizons transformed its approach to ALS and compliance:
- Now 100% compliance in LSF claims
- Confidently claiming LSF for 15% of apprentices (up from 5%)
Cognassist has been instrumental in helping us put strong policies and strategies in place. We now feel completely confident in our evidence and compliance.
— Chantelle, SENCo, Brighter Horizons
Learner progress and engagement improved significantly, with previously disengaged learners narrowing achievement gaps:
Where some learners might have been 25% behind after a couple of months, they’re now only 15% behind. They’re closing that gap every month, which reduces the risk of learners falling out of funding.
— Sam Page, Head of Education and Quality, Brighter Horizons
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive:
- 100% of learners rated overall support 5/5
- 100% rated their tutor 5/5 for making them feel understood
Learners also highlighted broader gains in confidence and transferable life skills:
It’s helping me organise my life and stay on top of deadlines. That support has really made a difference.
— Learner, Brighter Horizons
The strategies have not only supported me but also my neurodiverse family, it’s actually benefited our whole household.
— Learner, Brighter Horizons