Apprenticeship Changes Signal Government's Commitment to Next Generation

The government has announced significant changes to apprenticeship funding from January 2026, which will be shifted away from masters-level apprenticeships to focus on lower-level training.

This move will reshape training opportunities across England, promising to create 120,000 new training routes before the next general election, according to Sky News. 

This forms part of Labour’s wider goal to bridge skills gaps and cut net migration in the UK. We can expect to see an increase in skills in construction, engineering, healthcare, and other essential trades.  

Labour has committed to delivering an additional 30,000 apprenticeships over the next four years, backed by an increased budget of more than £3 billion in the current financial year. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasised that this investment represents Labour's commitment to building a "shared, stronger economic future" through Britain's young people. 

Source: Sky News 

The APSCo Perspective 

Our conversations with APSCo members reveal significant interest in leveraging apprenticeships as part of their people development strategies. While apprenticeships may not address every training need, they serve as one part of the overall strategy to build skilled workforces and support career progression. 

The shift toward junior-level training could create new opportunities for recruitment businesses to develop entry-level talent pipelines, particularly in sectors experiencing skills shortages. By embracing apprenticeships and inclusive recruitment practices, APSCo members can position themselves at the forefront of this skills revolution. 

APSCo continues to actively lobby for change and advocate for improvements demonstrated in our Public Policy Skills Report 2024, which is available for APSCo members to view here. 

Apprenticeships remain a valuable training part of the skills landscape across all sectors, age groups and skills, however Government should enable funding for shorter, more flexible modular training for everyone, an alternative pathway to the Grade 4 GCSE English/Maths requirement, broader access, and more flexibility around learning and record keeping. 

We also recommend that the development of the Growth and Skills Levy work within the existing skills system but beyond Ofqual accreditation. Non-regulated accreditation must be facilitated to encourage quality assured training delivered externally or “in-house” putting maximal flexibility at the heart of Skills England’s mandate for administering the new GSL.  

The scope of the GSL should encompass temporary workers, independent professionals, and the self-employed workforce.  

Additional long-term incentives and support for employers are needed, recognising the financial and managerial commitment needed.

Exclusive Offer for APSCo Members – Free Training Course for Apprentices 

In collaboration with Recruitment Juice, APSCo is offering all new apprentices who enroll before the end of June an additional free training course - our Inclusive+ Recruiter programme - after completing three months of their apprenticeship. Find out more here. 

About Inclusive+ Recruiter 

Building diverse and inclusive workforces has never been more critical for business success. Research shows that greater diversity drives both productivity and profitability. Our Inclusive+ Recruiter programme is an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) training course specifically designed for the recruitment sector. 

This specialised programme equips recruitment professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to build truly inclusive hiring practices, ensuring your business can capitalise on the proven benefits of workplace diversity. 

Apprenticeships for the Recruitment Sector

Learn more about apprenticeship opportunities and funding options or discover how our Inclusive+ Recruiter programme can enhance your team's capabilities.