Apprenticeships funding reform consultation

The government has launched a consultation on proposals to reform the funding of apprenticeship training in England, based on the Richard Review (2012).

The review stated that employers should be given freedom to choose the training that was most relevant to the needs of the apprentices and their businesses, and which represented best value.

Three options have been presented:

  • A new online system for apprenticeships with payments to employers made directly from the system;
  • Utilising the PAYE system; and
  • Reforming the existing provider funding infrastructure.

For further information on the consultation, including how to respond by the deadline of Tuesday 1 October, visit www.gov.uk/government/consultations/apprenticeship-funding-reform-in-england.

In addition, National Apprenticeship Service has published updated factsheets on Apprenticeship Grant for Employers 16 to 24 (AGE 16 to 24), which are available to download at www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Employers/Steps-to-make-it-happen/Incentive.aspx. The government recently announced the grant would be extended for a further year; with no changes to the eligibility criteria.