For National Apprenticeship Week, the Department for Education has announced new flexibilities for apprenticeships designed at boosting their potential for economic growth.

The changes mean businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a level 2 English and maths qualification.

The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will also be reduced from twelve to eight months.

Chief Executive of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust Kate Ambrosi has given the following response:

“We welcome the additional flexibility that these changes will give employers to develop their workforce and drive economic growth.

“The education provided by our University Technical Colleges is designed with local employers to be as flexible as possible for them, while also ensuring students are provided with the right technical knowledge and employability skills.

“Last summer, a fifth of Year 13 UTC leavers progressed onto apprenticeships in sectors including green energy, healthcare, and creative media. A key reason for this was because they had that strong foundation in knowledge and skills. It is important that employers ensure apprentices have a strong basis in English and maths so they can progress in their careers.

“Two-thirds of the apprenticeships started by UTC leavers are at the higher or degree level and it is especially important for upper apprenticeship levels that this new minimum duration is treated as a starting point, not a target. People learn and develop at different rates and they should not be rushed through their training.

“Baker Dearing looks forward to working with the new Skills England team on expanding and improving apprenticeship opportunities.”