Responding to the Government’s announcement of a range of apprenticeship policy changes, Nick Harrison, Chief Executive of the Sutton Trust, said:

‘Removing the requirement for apprentices to complete level 2 maths and English qualifications is a sensible move that takes away a major barrier to accessing and completing apprenticeships. We have long called for this change so that employers have more flexibility while still ensuring apprentices have opportunities to develop the maths and English skills needed in the world of work.

‘Reducing the minimum duration of an apprenticeship must come with safeguards that quality will be maintained or improved. And rebalancing levy funding to increase the number of lower-level apprenticeships should help to reinstate opportunities for younger people that have dwindled in recent years. At present, many higher and degree level apprenticeships are undertaken by those aged over 25, often existing employees. Redressing the balance should also help to tackle major skills gaps and help to drive inclusive growth across the country.

‘However, the impact of the change to a skills and apprenticeships levy should be carefully monitored to ensure employers are not diverting funds from apprenticeships towards broader learning and development for staff. And crucially, to ensure that more opportunities are created for disadvantaged young people who stand to benefit the most from them.’