Apprenticeships in the UK are currently undergoing government reforms. These reforms will have a significant impact on the way apprenticeships are funded and delivered.

Over a period of time, apprenticeship standards have replaced the SASE frameworks. These standards have been developed by employer groups (trailblazers) and are based on job roles. You can find a list of all of the occupations that are currently available here.

Skillsfirst remains firmly committed to apprenticeships and are working closely with an increasing number of employers to embed quality, highly valued apprenticeships within their organisations.

Although qualifications are no longer mandated in many apprenticeship standards, the majority of our provider and employer partners tell us they still want to give their apprentices the opportunity to achieve a qualification. To support this, we are in the process of reviewing and revising (where required) our qualifications to ensure they reflect the knowledge and competency outlined in the new standards.

Current Apprenticeship funding rules state that those undertaking a Level 3 or Higher Apprenticeship are required to hold or achieve as part of their Apprenticeship, a Level 2 qualification in both English and Maths.

Furthermore, the funding rules state that to attract government funding, at least 20% of the Apprentice’s paid hours, over the planned duration of the Apprenticeship training period, must be spent on off-the-job training. Therefore for any Apprentices starting a Higher Apprenticeship, there is a requirement for them to have achieved Level 2 English and Maths and fulfil the 20% off-the-job training requirement. This is in order to align certification requirements with the funding rules.

Apprenticeship certification claims will require the relevant achievement evidence to be uploaded.

You can read more about our End-point Assessment (EPA) offer here.

For more information on Apprenticeship Standards click here.

Skillsfirst is part of the VTCT group, under our VTCT brand we offer apprenticeships include Hairdressing, Beauty and Barbering.