From 1 August 2025, the Department for Education has introduced new apprenticeship funding rules that affect programme length, training requirements, and learner eligibility. These changes are designed to create consistency and simplify delivery for both employers and training providers.
Minimum duration and Off-the-job Training
- Apprenticeships must now run for a minimum of 8 months.
- All apprentices must complete at least 187 hours of Off-the-Job (OTJ) training, regardless of prior experience. This replaces the previous 20% calculation rule.
Learners who complete early may no longer be eligible for certain incentive payments, such as the 16-18 employer incentive or the care leaver bursary, both of which require the learner to remain on programme for either 300 or 365 days.
Part-time apprentices: Equal Terms
Apprentices working fewer than 30 hours per week no longer need extended programme durations. These learners can now follow the same timelines as full-time apprentices.
Functional Skills: More flexibility for 19+ learners
Learners aged 19 and over can now choose to opt out of Functional Skills training at the start of their programme, with employer agreement. If they opt in, they must complete the training and sit the assessments, though passing is no longer a requirement for completing the apprenticeship.
At Aspiration Training, we remain committed to high-quality Functional Skills training, which continues to provide real value to both apprentices and employers.
Extra Guidance for younger learners
Training providers are now required to offer additional support to 16-17 year olds who may be at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).
If a young apprentice withdraws from the programme, this must now be reported to their local authority.
Other Key Updates
- Apprenticeship agreements must be formally extended if a learner continues past their planned end date.
- EU nationals with pre-settled status remain eligible, provided they meet the usual residency requirements.
- Care leaver bursaries are now tax-free and do not impact Universal Credit.
- The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) is now fully integrated into the Department for Education.
To find out more, contact us here.
