The UK government continues to provide financial incentives and funding support to encourage employers to take on apprentices. Whether your business is new to apprenticeships or looking to expand an existing programme, understanding the funding available is an important first step in making the most of what is on offer.
Apprenticeship Funding for Employers
Apprenticeship funding in England is administered through the apprenticeship levy and the government co-investment scheme. Employers with an annual wage bill of £3 million or more pay into the apprenticeship levy and can use those funds to cover the cost of apprenticeship training. Employers below this threshold can access co-investment funding, meaning the government pays 95% of the training costs and the employer contributes the remaining 5%.
This makes apprenticeships an accessible and cost-effective route for businesses of all sizes to hire and develop talent across sales, marketing, and business administration.
For more information on how apprenticeship funding works, visit the government's apprenticeship funding guidance.
Hiring New Apprentices
Apprenticeships are open to new hires and existing employees of any age. Employers can use apprenticeship funding to upskill their current workforce or to bring in new talent with structured, accredited training built into the role from day one.
For employers looking to recruit an apprentice, the Find an Apprenticeship service provides a straightforward route to advertising apprenticeship vacancies and reaching candidates across the country.
Flexi-Job Apprenticeships
Flexi-Job apprenticeships are designed for industries where flexible or varied working patterns are the norm, such as the creative industries, construction, and hospitality. They allow apprentices to work across multiple employers or through an apprenticeship employer provider, meaning the apprenticeship model works for roles that do not follow a traditional single-employer pattern.
This broadens the range of employers and individuals who can benefit from apprenticeship training and funding.
Supporting a Diverse Workforce Through Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide employers with an opportunity to build more diverse and inclusive teams. Programmes are open to people of all ages and backgrounds, and the structured nature of apprenticeship training means that learners receive consistent, accredited development regardless of their prior experience.
For guidance on building a more inclusive apprenticeship programme, the government's apprenticeship diversity toolkit provides practical resources for employers.
How Professional Academy Supports Your Journey
Professional Academy has over 27 years of experience supporting employers and learners through professional training and apprenticeship programmes. Its apprenticeship offer covers marketing, sales, and business administration, with programmes including the Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer, the Level 4 Marketing Executive, and the Level 6 Marketing Manager.
Wendy Spaxman, Apprenticeship Adviser at Professional Academy, works directly with employers to help them understand the funding available and identify the right programme for their team.
To find out more about how apprenticeship funding could benefit your business, contact the apprenticeships team or book an advice call at a time to suit you.
