On February 11th, 2025, the Government announced a major policy change that will reshape how apprenticeships assess proficiency in English and Maths. This shift moves toward a more occupation-specific approach. Apprentices no longer need formal English and Maths qualifications to complete their apprenticeship. Instead, they will demonstrate relevant skills linked directly to their chosen field. Here’s a closer look at the details of the change and how employers and apprentices can navigate this exciting new direction.
What’s Changing?
The most notable change affects adult apprentices aged 19 and over at the start of their apprenticeship. Previously, apprentices in this age group had to hold or achieve formal English and Maths qualifications to complete their End Point Assessment (EPA). The new rules remove this requirement. Apprentices will now demonstrate their proficiency in English and Maths through the development and assessment of skills directly relevant to their occupation.
It’s important to note that this change does not apply to younger apprentices. Apprentices aged 16-18 will still need to obtain formal English and Maths qualifications as part of their apprenticeship journey.
These new rules are effective immediately. Apprenticeships across the country will now operate under these updated guidelines.
How We Will Support You and Your Apprentice
At Zenith, we are committed to supporting you and your apprentices through these changes. We understand that this is a significant shift, and we’ll make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s how we’ll guide you through the next steps for apprentices aged 19 and over:
Supporting Your Apprentice’s Progress
We will work closely with you and your apprentice to assess whether functional skills training should continue. This collaborative approach will help us review the apprentice’s progress and determine the best course of action to support their development in English and Maths. Our goal is to tailor support to each apprentice’s individual needs.
Documenting the Outcome
Once we decide on functional skills training, we will document the outcome in an updated training plan. You, the apprentice, and Zenith will need to sign this plan by March 31st, 2025. This ensures all parties are aligned and the next steps for the apprentice’s continued success are clear.
Deciding on English and Maths Functional Skills Training
The decision regarding functional skills training is crucial. If it’s decided that the apprentice should continue, they will still complete the training and attempt the test. However, passing the test is no longer required to advance to the End Point Assessment (EPA), and it won’t be a barrier to completing the apprenticeship.
If functional skills training is discontinued, the apprentice will shift to occupation-specific training. They will demonstrate their proficiency in English and Maths through skills directly related to their job. This ensures apprentices develop the skills that directly contribute to their job performance.
What Does This Mean for Funding?
The funding rules for English and Maths qualifications have been updated to align with the new policy. Employers and apprentices can still access funding for English and Maths qualifications, including for those aged 19 and over. If either the employer or the apprentice believes that further qualifications are necessary, funding will remain available. This flexibility helps ensure that apprentices receive the support they need to succeed.
Additional Financial Incentives for Employers
Beyond the changes to English and Maths requirements, employers can benefit from several financial incentives when hiring apprentices.
National Insurance Savings
Did you know that hiring an apprentice can save you money on National Insurance? Employers are exempt from paying Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25 who earn less than £967 per week (£50,270 annually). For example, employing an apprentice on the National Living Wage (currently £12.21 per hour) could save you over £3,000 annually in National Insurance contributions.
Apprenticeship Funding
For businesses with an annual pay bill under £3 million, up to 95% of apprenticeship training costs are fully funded. If you pay the apprenticeship levy, you can use your unspent levy funds to cover training costs. The government will contribute additional funds to support apprenticeship training.
At Zenith, we can help you access unspent levy funds and ensure your business makes the most of available financial support. Even if you’re a levy payer, we could help make the apprenticeship fully funded for your business, reducing operational costs while investing in a skilled workforce.
These changes to English and Maths exit requirements open up new opportunities for both apprentices and employers. Apprentices can now develop skills that are directly relevant to their occupation. Employers can benefit from significant savings and financial incentives.
At Zenith, we’re excited to support you through this transition and help ensure that you and your apprentices make the most of these changes. Whether you continue with functional skills training or switch to occupation-specific development, we’re here to provide the guidance and resources you need to succeed.
If you have any questions or need assistance navigating these updates, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Want to know more about apprenticeship funding? Check out our blog about the Apprenticeship Levy and how you can utilise best!
The Upcoming Changes to the Apprenticeship Levy: What It Means for Your Business – Zenith Training