The apprenticeship reforms over the last seven years have been transformative in terms of quality and the breadth of professions apprenticeship standards lead to. However, if there is part of the system that still struggles – smaller firms.
This is why it is brilliant news that this Conservative government has announced a major package of reforms to support businesses to deliver more apprenticeship places, benefitting local small businesses and young people across our local area.
Backed by £60 million of new government funding for 2024-25, the government will fully fund apprenticeships in small businesses from 1 April by paying the full cost of training for anyone up to the age of 21 – reducing costs and burdens for businesses and delivering more opportunities for young people to kick start their career.
The Conservative Government will also increase the amount of funding that large employers who are paying the Apprenticeship Levy can pass onto other businesses –from 25 per cent of their unused Levy to 50 per cent. Taken together, these measures are expected to enable up to 20,000 more apprenticeships, unlocking the opportunities our young people deserve.
Our Plan for Esher and Walton includes campaigning for even more local apprenticeships. Since 2010, there have been about 5,000 new apprenticeship starts in our area. This announcement will build on that progress to support even more young people to fulfil their potential, while also helping small business make the most of our fantastic local talent.