The UK government recently announced new changes surrounding the requirement of maths and English for apprentices.
V2 of the Apprenticeship Funding rules 2024-2025 have now been released.
We are continuing to assess and review as more information is released, but we are able to provide a summary of the changes so far below:
For apprentices currently on programme as of 11 February 2025:
For those aged 16-18 at the start of their apprenticeship the rules remain unchanged.
For those aged 19+, the Functional Skills requirements are now optional. The provider must discuss with the apprentice and employer whether to continue English and maths by 1 April 2025. Any changes should be documented on the training plan.
If Apprentices continue with maths/English, they must attempt the exam, but they do they not have to achieve before taking EPA.
For new starts from 11 February 2025:
For those aged 16-18 at the start of their apprenticeship the rules remain unchanged.
For those age 19+ at start, providers must, as part of the initial assessment, discuss and agree with the apprentice and employer whether the apprenticeship will include English and maths. The decision must be recorded in the training plan.
If Apprentices study maths/English, they must attempt the exam, but they do they not have to achieve before taking EPA.
SFJ Awards will be confirming Gateway requirements and updating documentation with EPA customers directly.
If you would like to speak to us about these changes, please get in touch at epa@sfjawards.com.
