Shorter and flexible apprenticeships and new English and maths requirements to boost skills and support employers .

Fantastic news at the start of #NAW that functional skills are no longer a mandatory exit requirement for adults (over 18s). This has been one of the biggest barriers for our sector in the uptake of apprenticeships and we are delighted this decision has been taken. Minimum durations will also be piloted which I know for some sectors will be welcomed. This is a massive move forward and a key ask from us in our “chance for change document. It is also great to our sector being directly referenced in the Government statement.

Changes to make Apprenticeships shorter have also been announced in the Government statement.

In summary:

• Businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a level 2 English and maths qualification in order to pass it. This will come into effect immediately.
• The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months. This will be introduced from August 2025 subject to the legislative timetable. Three trailblazer apprenticeships in key shortage occupations will look to pioneer this approach, with apprentices in green energy, healthcare and film/TV production set to be able to take on these new courses.

You can read more about the Government's statement here.