Apprenticeships: Important updates to the duration of apprenticeships and functional skills requirements

14 February 2025

As your EPAO, we want to keep you informed about recent updates from the Department for Education (DfE) regarding apprenticeships.

These changes are designed to provide greater flexibility and support for apprentices, training providers, and employers. 

If you have any questions regarding the following information, please do not hesitate to contact our EPA team here at AIM via: assessment@aimgroup.org.uk

Key Changes 

• Apprenticeship Duration: From August 2025, the minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced from 12 months to eight months (subject to the legislative timetable). Initially, this may apply to sectors identified as having occupational shortages. 
• Functional Skills Requirements: From 11 February 2025, apprentices aged 19 and over will no longer be required to pass Level 2 English and Maths functional skills. However, for apprentices aged 16 to 18, the requirement to pass Level 2 functional skills remains unchanged. 

We understand that these changes may have an impact on apprentices, training providers, and employers. Please be rest assured, as soon as further guidance becomes available, we will adapt our EPA processes to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for all involved. 

As mentioned previously, if you have any questions or need support, our EPA team is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at assessment@aimgroup.org.uk. 

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