The Government has announced plans to reduce red tape and allow up to 10,000 apprentices to qualify every year.
The move was announced during National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February) and will result in shorter, more flexible apprenticeships.
Employers will have more flexibility in determining the English and Maths requirements under the new measures. The organisations will decide if adult apprentices over 19 years old must have level 2 English and Maths qualifications in order to complete their course.
Apprenticeships will be reduced from 12 months to 8 months, allowing learners to gain qualification more quickly.
These initiatives, according to the government will help fill skills shortages, especially in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare, social care and construction.
Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary, said: “Growing economy and opportunities for all are fundamental mission of our Plan for Change. We are determined to support apprenticeships throughout National Apprenticeship Week and thereafter.
Our new offer of shorter apprentices and less bureaucracy strikes the right balance, helping us achieve our number-one mission to grow the country’s economy.
The government is also changing rules that slow down worker training in some sectors as it aims to “turbocharge” growth industries.
Changes to the minimum apprenticeship length will come into effect in August 2025, depending on the legislative schedule, while the changes to English and Maths requirements take immediate effect.
In the meantime, a new leadership team has been named for Skills England. Phil Smith will be the chair, and Sir David Bell the vice chair. Tessa Griffiths will share the CEO role with Sarah Maclean, and Gemma Marsh is to be the deputy CEO.
The organisation will focus on key shortage occupations in order to meet the country’s skill needs and boost growth.
Craig Beaumont, executive Director of the Federation of Small Businesses said: “It is encouraging to see the government shortening the length of apprenticeships and giving employers the right of decision whether level 2 English or maths is required. These flexibilities will help SME employers to fill skills gaps quicker.”
Euan Blair, MBE, founder of Multiverse and CEO, said: “This announcement is important because it will widen and increase access to apprenticeships. It should be embraced as an effort to place our skills system in the center of the growth Mission.”
The measures are a follow-up to the announcement made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last September when he pledged to reform growth and skill opportunities in order to better support youth.
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