Apprenticeship rule changes are ‘great news’ - Shropshire Chamber

 Apprentices over the age of 19 will no longer be required to undertake English and maths functional skills qualifications to complete their course, under the new regulations. 

The changes will also see the minimum duration of all apprenticeships shortened from 12 to eight months – probably starting from the next academic year.

“This is great news which has been much needed, and could help employers to plug ongoing skills gaps,” said Ruth Ross, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber.

“We have been feeding this back to Government for the past three years through our role as the leader of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for the Marches, which is committed to bringing the voice of employers to the forefront.

“The LSIP is all about building a clear picture of what employers want and need over the next 10 to 15 years, using the information to lobby decision-makers and help companies grow and prosper - so it is great to see that they do listen.”

She added: “We believe this will be great news for employers, who will now feel more enthusiastic about taking on adult apprentices.

“It is even better for older employees who may have previously been put off from the idea of furthering themselves because of the need to pass English and maths exams.

“We know that there have been instances of older workers who passed their English and maths many years ago being unable to prove it, as they no longer have access to their certificates.”

Education secretary Bridget Phillipson claims the changes could lead to 10,000 more apprentices a year. They do not impact apprentices aged between 16 and 18, however, who will still be required to pass level 2 functional skills exams to complete their studies.

Ruth Ross added: “Good literacy and numeracy are an important ingredient of work and life, but there is no doubt that functional skills requirements have become one of the biggest barriers for providers, employers and apprentices.

“We believe this will also help more disadvantaged people to gain a foothold on the careers ladder.”

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has just launched its latest Quarterly Economic Survey, quizzing businesses on a range of topics - including skills and training. All submissions are anonymous. Closing date for submissions is March 1. To take part, see www.surveymonkey.com/r/ShropChamQES-Q12025