Want to know all the relevant changes and new rules for apprenticeship off-the-job training in 2024? We cover the Department of Education’s recently published “Apprenticeship Funding Rules 2024/2025” and how they’ll affect apprentices, employers, and training providers alike.
Perhaps the most significant benefit of apprenticeships is the combination of on-the-job and off-the-job training that they offer. This well-rounded approach to job training provides apprentices with a complete understanding of their role and the sector they’re training for. As a result, apprentice employers cultivate and develop an experienced and specialised workforce for their organisation.
However, with newly announced changes to the apprenticeship off-the-job training element, as well as several improvements in other areas, employers and training providers are eager to know how they’ll be affected.
Apprenticeship Funding Rules 2024/2025: What You Need to Know
From the 31st of July 2024, the government will implement a series of changes to the current apprenticeship policies. These changes will affect all apprenticeship training programmes starting on or after 1st August 2024, unless stated otherwise.
So, what are the main changes we need to know about? Let’s take a look.
Increased flexibility
One of the most notable aspects of the new rules is the enhanced flexibility in delivering apprenticeship off-the-job training. Until now, “active learning” needed to take place every calendar month. However, the updated guidelines state that “active learning” can occur at least every three calendar months for apprenticeships with front-loaded or block-release delivery models.
This reduced frequency allows for a broader spectrum of training methods and formats. As such, apprenticeships can better cater to individual learning styles and business requirements.
Reduced administrative work
Along with reducing the frequency of active learning comes a reduction in the bureaucracy associated with claiming learning support. Prior to these changes, reviews took place every month. However, employers will only need to perform reviews every 3 months. This will lead to a massive 66% reduction in the administrative workload required.
Keep in mind, however, that assessments for learning support can still happen at any time during the apprenticeship.
It will also be easier to onboard apprentices and track their progress by cutting down on the paperwork involved. Now, the initial assessment and the creation of the training plan are combined into one process. This means fewer documents for employers and providers to handle and sign. Plus, training providers will no longer need to get employers’ signatures for each progress review.
New subcontracting threshold
The apprenticeship funding rules have been updated to increase the subcontracting threshold from £30,000 to £100,000. This change aims to enhance flexibility for training providers, allowing them to more easily engage industry experts for specialised training.
The higher threshold simplifies the process, ensuring apprentices receive high-quality, up-to-date industry instruction. This strategic adjustment is expected to improve the overall effectiveness and relevance of apprenticeship programmes.
However, keep in mind that only main providers and employer-providers who have written confirmation from the government can use this flexibility.
Support for English and maths training
The policy now clearly states that GCSE grades D to G (or 3 to 1 under the new grading system) are equivalent to a level 1 qualification. This means that apprentices with these grades in English and maths meet the level 1 requirement. This change applies to new apprentices starting from the 1st of August 2024, and those already enrolled in apprenticeship programmes.
There has also been clarification that apprentices with learning difficulties or disabilities may need extra support with English and/or maths. This applies whether or not they have an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plan.
Providers should consider allowing these apprentices to aim for Entry Level 3 functional skills in the subjects where they face challenges. This means adapting the requirements to better suit their needs and abilities.
What Do These Changes Mean?
Of course, these new apprenticeship off-the-job training and funding rules will affect all parties in different ways.
Here’s how.
Apprentices
For apprentices, the new rules will bring about a more personalised and dynamic learning experience, tailored to their individual preferences and career aspirations. With greater flexibility in training delivery, apprentices can expect a more engaging and effective learning journey. This will better equip them for success in their chosen field.
Employers
Apprentice employers will really benefit from the new flexibility in apprenticeship programmes. They can now tailor training to better match their business goals and industry needs. By getting involved in creating and delivering off-the-job training, they can make sure apprenticeships directly boost their workforce development and help their company grow.
Training providers
Training providers are key to making the new rules work. They use their expertise to offer quality off-the-job training that meets the changing needs of both apprentices and employers. By coming up with innovative ways to design and deliver the curriculum, they can make apprenticeship programmes more effective, benefiting everyone involved.
Key Takeaways: Apprenticeship Off-The-Job Training and Funding Rules
Overall, it looks like the upcoming changes to apprenticeship off-the-job training for 2024 will bring about a positive shift in the structure and delivery of apprenticeships.
With increased flexibility, reduced administrative burdens, and new subcontracting thresholds, apprentices, employers, and training providers can expect a more tailored and effective learning experience.
Are you an apprentice employer? Here, at Employing an Apprentice, we offer support and guidance for employers in a whole range of areas.
This includes topics such as the benefits of employing an apprentice, how to access funding, finding an apprentice training provider, End Point Assessments, and much, much more.
Looking to recruit fresh talent to your apprenticeship programmes? You can advertise your vacancy on our specialised apprenticeship jobs board today.
For more information, email us at info@employinganapprentice.com or give us a call at 0345 872 4501.
