The government has confirmed that it will axe English and Maths exit requirements for adult apprentices with immediate effect.
Scrapping the exit rule, part of a package of reforms unveiled by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson during National Apprenticeship Week, is optional for existing apprentices as well as new starters.
Employers and apprenticeship providers will have until 1st April 2025 to agree with their existing adult apprentices whether to continue or discontinue studying for their English and Maths qualifications and will need to update their training plans accordingly.
Funding will continue to be available for English and Maths qualifications for all adult apprentices if either the employer or apprentice feels this is required.
Apprentices who are aged 16 to 18 at the start of their training, will still be required to achieve English and Maths qualifications to support their career progression.
It is hoped that relaxing this exit requirement will make apprenticeships more attractive to employers and apprentices.
"This news will come as a relief to the small number of apprentices who struggle to achieve English and Maths qualifications to complete their apprenticeship," explained Emma Taylor, Apprenticeship Manager at Reed Learning.
Development of English and maths skills is still important, but removing this exit requirement will help some apprentices to complete their programme and focus more on becoming occupational competent in their chosen field.
Apprenticeship Manager at Reed Learning.
Other reforms announced by the government during National Apprenticeship Week include:
The launch of 'Your Apprenticeship' app to provide easy access to essential tools and resources.
Simplification process of the payments process for apprenticeship training providers.
Improvements to assessment principles to streamline design and flexibility.
Introducing shorter apprenticeships.
Reed Learning offers a wide range of HR, L&D and Accountancy apprenticeships.
Contact us for more information.