Cap on Apprenticeship Starts for SME Employers Reset to Zero
Following pressure from the FE sector, which has argued that the previous limit was reducing opportunities, the cap on apprenticeship starts for SME employers has been reset to zero.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that want to take on more apprentices will now have the opportunity to do so, as the cap on apprenticeship starts has been reset to zero. From 1st June onwards, any non-levy paying employer will be able to start up to 10 apprentices, regardless of how many employees they currently have. This is great news for SMEs and should help boost apprentice numbers across the country.
An ESFA update said: “This reset will give employers who do not pay the levy greater certainty over their recruitment plans for the year ahead. It is made in recognition of the important role that SMEs play in creating apprenticeship opportunities, particularly for younger people and those in disadvantaged areas.”
The news has been welcomed by the FE sector, with many arguing that it will help to increase the amount of opportunities available. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn new skills and gain valuable experience, so this change should be positive for both employers and employees.
HBTC operate across the Humber region with training centres in Hull, Grimsby and Scunthorpe. If you are an employer considering recruiting an apprentice, please get in touch.
