Government relaxes English and maths rules for apprentices in bid to boost workforce

The government has scrapped English and maths functional skills exit requirements for adult apprentices with immediate effect.

Education secretary Bridget Phillipson announced the reforms yesterday to mark National Apprenticeship Week, claiming that the changes will slash red tape and lead to 10,000 more apprentices a year.

The Department for Education (DfE) said the changes mean more learners can qualify in high demand sectors such as healthcare, social care and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding. 

Ministers also revealed that the minimum duration of apprenticeships will be shortened from 12 to eight months from the next academic year.

The exit rule will be made optional for adults immediately. It is unclear, however, whether the new rule can be applied to apprentices already on-programme or new starters only. FE Week is seeking clarification from the Department for Education.

There will also be no change to the rule for 16 to 18 apprentices, who will still be required to pass level 2 functional skills exams to complete their apprenticeship.

The DfE added that this “does not mean that apprentices won’t be assessed on core English and maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean that apprentices will be able to focus more on their paid work”.

Emily Stubbs (pictured), head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The delivery of high-quality apprenticeships is critical to driving inclusive economic growth across the West Midlands.

“This newly announced eight-month minimum duration is an important step in addressing one of the key findings of the West Midlands and Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan, that apprenticeships of 12 months or longer have often been too long to meet pressing employer needs.

“English and maths requirements have consistently been another of the biggest barriers to apprenticeships, as reported by employers and providers.

“While ensuring learners have the skills necessary for their occupation, and access to English and maths support should they want it, removing this barrier is hoped to enable more people to access new opportunities.

“These announcements will be well received by many local employers.

“However, to allow firms to plan ahead and maximise investment in workforce skills, the Government must also urgently confirm the full details of the anticipated Growth and Skills Levy.”

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