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Lancashire Times
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Helen Kitchen
Deputy Business Editor
12:01 AM 17th January 2025
business

Flexibility In Apprenticeships Could Boost Uptake


71% of business leaders support employer flexibility in English and Maths requirements for apprenticeships, according to new research from the Institute of Directors (IoD).

A recent poll of 496 IoD members reveals that offering employers the choice to decide whether adult apprentices need to undertake English and Maths qualifications could significantly impact apprenticeship uptake. 34% of respondents said this flexibility would make their organisation more likely to offer apprenticeships.

Alex Hall-Chen, Principal Policy Advisor for Skills at the IoD, commented:

“Apprenticeships are a vital tool in tackling the UK’s persistent skills shortages, yet apprenticeship starts have almost halved since 2015. Removing unnecessary barriers to apprenticeship uptake should be a priority for the government.

“While it is crucial that literacy and numeracy skills are embedded in all apprenticeships, employers are well-placed to judge whether English and Maths qualifications are the most appropriate route to evidence or develop these skills for success in a given career path.”


The survey conducted in December 2024 gathered responses from businesses of all sizes, offering a snapshot of the business community’s view on apprenticeships:

71% believe employers should decide on English and Maths requirements for apprentices over 18.
34% say flexibility would increase their likelihood of offering apprenticeships.


The IoD’s findings come at a critical time, with UK businesses facing skills shortages across sectors. Providing employers with flexibility in apprenticeship frameworks could be a key step in reversing the decline in apprenticeship starts, ensuring they remain a viable pathway for workforce development.



Full results

497 responses from across the UK, conducted between 13-30 December 2024. 13% ran large businesses (250+ people), 18% medium (50-249), 21% small (10-49 people), 36% micro (2-9 people) and 11% sole trader and self-employed business entities (0-1 people).

Do you think employers should be able to decide whether apprentices over the age of 18 should be required to undertake an English and Maths qualification as part of their apprenticeship?

Yes71.0%
No13.9%
Don't know15.1%



Would this flexibility make your organisation more or less likely to use apprenticeships?

More likely33.9%
No change54.6%
Less likely1.4%
Don't know10.1%