APPRENTICESHIP REFORM: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
The House of Commons Education Committee has published its latest report, Further Education and Skills, following inquiry into the state of further education in England. Big changes could be on the way, especially for the apprenticeship system.
The Committee's main message: simplify, simplify, simplify. While the government's recent reforms and the new Growth and Skills Levy are seen as steps in the right direction, the current system is still seen as too complicated, and it’s putting people off.
Here are the key points to keep an eye on:
Apprenticeships
The Committee wants the government to make apprenticeships more user-friendly, especially for SMEs. They’re calling for a simplified application and reporting process, plus proper support for smaller businesses, by April 2026.
Growth and Skills Levy
Since August 2025, this levy has helped fund shorter foundation apprenticeships in key sectors (and that’s been well received). However, the Committee says it’s time to go further. Sectors like hospitality, retail and care should also benefit, especially to help young people into work. In a move likely to spark interest from employers and training providers, the Committee urges the government to reverse its decision to stop funding higher-level apprenticeships for those over the age of 22.
Skills England
There are concerns that Skills England, now in charge of overseeing reforms, isn’t independent enough (given it’s an executive agency of the Department for Education). The Committee wants to see an independent review by June 2027, with legislation on the table if needed to give it full independence.
The seniority status of Skills England's Chief Executive Officers should be reviewed in June 2026 and regraded upwards, if necessary. Skills England should deliver reform of the complex levy system by June 2027, with simplified processes and tailored support.
Youth Guarantee
Finally, there's a push to widen access to the government’s Youth Guarantee scheme. Right now, it supports 18–21-year-olds. The Committee says this should be expanded to include all young people aged 16–24.
For HR professionals and in-house legal teams, these proposals could simplify access to apprenticeships, increase funding opportunities, and reduce red tape. However, they also raise compliance and strategic planning questions as the system evolves.
