Apprenticeship guidance published

Commenting on the publication of information from the Department for Education about the revised apprenticeship system, Martin Doel, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges (AoC), said: “The apprenticeship levy funding system does not appear to be any simpler than before, but we understand that a balance must be struck between simplicity and leaving the system open to exploitation.‎ However the system is managed, the high quality of apprenticeships must be maintained to meet the needs of business and to ensure people are fully trained for their chosen career. “It is a positive step that small employers will be protected from making payments when they take on an employee who is 16 to 18-years-old, has left care or has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC). This will create more opportunities for people in these ‘vulnerable’ groups. However, we need to study the details and consult with our member colleges to understand fully the possible consequences of the rules around the apprenticeship levy.”