DfE announces key changes to qualification requirements for apprentices
by Jess Gibson
Apprentices aged 19 years or older at the start of their apprenticeship will no longer be required to hold Level 2 English and maths qualifications to complete their apprenticeship, the government has confirmed.
The change will apply to both new and existing learners currently undertaking their apprenticeship programme, and will “allow many thousands more apprentices to complete their apprenticeships and enter employment, supporting vital sectors such as early years to meet skills and workforce demands”, according to the Department for Education (DfE).
The requirement for apprentices aged 16-18 years old to achieve English and maths qualifications will continue.
The government projects that these changes will enable up to 10,000 more apprentices to qualify per year.
The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will also be reduced to eight months from the current minimum of 12 months,
Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson said: “Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental Missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices throughout this National Apprenticeship Week and beyond.
“Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system and these reforms show that we are listening. Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality, helping achieve our number one mission to grow the economy.
“Skills England will be a major driver in addressing the skills gaps needed to support employers up and down the country and I look forward to working with the new leadership.”