Nottingham College is supporting employers across the region as they navigate the most significant reforms to the apprenticeship system in more than a decade, following a major Government announcement aimed at boosting youth employment and addressing national skills shortages.
The reforms form part of a £1 billion youth employment initiative aimed at creating 200,000 jobs and apprenticeships over the next three years, backed by £2.5 billion of national investment. Measures include expanded foundation apprenticeships in priority sectors such as retail and hospitality, increased early‑career skills investment, and new employer incentives, including a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for employers hiring 18–24‑year‑olds on Universal Credit and a £2,000 incentive for SMEs recruiting apprentices aged 16–24.
The changes respond to a decade‑long decline in youth apprenticeship starts and signal a renewed focus on rebuilding early‑talent pipelines. Alongside the new incentives, the Government has confirmed the withdrawal of funding for 16 apprenticeship standards from September 2026, with final enrolments closing on 17 December 2026. Employers using affected standards may need to bring forward enrolments or review training plans, while organisations recruiting young people will benefit from increased financial support and strengthened entry‑level pathways.
Nottingham College is offering tailored support to help employers transition smoothly and make the most of the opportunities created by the reforms. This includes advice on moving to technical and professional apprenticeships that remain fully fundable, planning support for final enrolments ahead of funding withdrawal deadlines, and access to alternative workforce development options such as leadership training, bespoke programmes and accredited short courses. Employers can also receive guidance on navigating the revised Growth and Skills Levy to ensure training budgets are used effectively.
Maxine Blake, Head of Employer Engagement for Nottingham College said, “The latest changes to apprenticeship funding give employers greater flexibility to invest in the skills their businesses and communities need most. At Nottingham College, we’re committed to making those changes work in a practical, meaningful way — helping employers build strong talent pipelines while creating real opportunities for people to progress into high‑quality, rewarding careers.”
