Rules slowing down the training of workers in key industries like construction will also be changed as the government reveals plans to turbocharge growth industries with reduced bureaucracy for apprenticeships and new leadership appointed for Skills England. 

Leading employers have been calling for these changes. Businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 who start their apprenticeship course must complete a level 2 English and maths qualification (equivalent to GCSE) to pass it.

This means more learners can qualify in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, social care, and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding.

This could mean as many as 10,000 more apprentices per year can complete their apprenticeship, unlocking opportunities in communities nationwide and breaking the link between background and success. 

It does not mean that apprentices won’t be assessed on core English and maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean that apprentices will be able to focus more on their paid work.

The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months.

Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson said: “Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental Missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices throughout this National Apprenticeship Week and beyond.

“Skills England will be a major driver in addressing the skills gaps needed to support employers nationwide, and I look forward to working with the new leadership.”

Craig Beaumont, executive director of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “It’s encouraging to see the Government shorten the length of apprenticeships and give employers the right to decide whether Level 2 English and Maths is needed. These flexibilities should help SME employers fill skills gaps faster.”

These announcements come as the Education Secretary kicked off National Apprenticeship Week yesterday.

This week celebrates the achievements of apprentices around the country and the positive impact they make on communities, businesses, and the wider economy. 

The plans also follow the Prime Minister’s announcement in September, when he pledged to reform the new growth and skills offered to ensure better support for young people.  

Three trailblazer apprenticeships in key shortage occupations will look to pioneer the new shorter apprenticeship approach, with apprentices in green energy, healthcare and film/TV production set to be able to take on these new courses.  

Changes to the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be introduced from August 2025, subject to the legislative timetable, with changes to English and maths requirements coming into effect immediately.

This will be hugely beneficial to employers in sectors like construction, which urgently need qualified workers. It will also help meet the government’s mission to build 1.5 million homes by the end of this parliament.  

The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has also announced that Phil Smith CBE will chair Skills England, the new nationwide body for skills, with Sir David Bell serving as Vice Chair. Tessa Griffiths and Sarah Maclean will jointly serve as CEO, while Gemma Marsh will serve as Deputy CEO.

David Crosthwaite, chief economist, Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), said: "On the surface, easing apprenticeship restrictions and creating greater flexibility for businesses is a welcome step. However, we need to ask serious questions about how much of an impact this will have in the short term. The headline figure of 10,000 more apprentices sounds impressive but is not even enough to address the significant loss of skilled labour seen over the past five years.

 
"Further, while reducing the minimum apprenticeship duration from 12 months to 8 months might improve completion rates, it raises concerns about training quality. If it previously took a year to equip apprentices with the necessary skills, can this be effectively achieved in just eight months without compromising standards?

"If the government is serious about tackling the construction skills shortage, it needs to commit to a broader strategy, which cannot ignore the historic importance of overseas workers. Of course, the industry has to play its part in this too by making construction an attractive career with more direct employment instead of self-employment."