The Government have announced an overhaul to apprenticeships to support opportunity. The first report from Skills England, the government’s new body for the skills system, has also been published which you can view here.
Joanne Giles, Director of the Essex LSIP said: “Skills shortages are a major concern for Essex businesses, hindering economic growth. The proposed Growth and Skills Levy, a key part of the Government’s election plans, is a step forward.
“While advocating for a more flexible Levy, it is crucial that Essex businesses have a straightforward, coherent, and responsive system that incentivises employer investment in training for both levy and non-levy employers.
“To drive sustained economic growth in Essex, companies need a levy that funds training at all ages and skill levels. Any imbalance will impact local business investment. We welcome the recent announcement on Foundation Apprenticeships, as ensuring access for all is fundamental to the success of our skills system.
“We will collaborate with Skills England to advocate for your needs and shape the system based on your feedback.”
Reacting to further detail on the announcement of reforms to the apprenticeship system in England, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Skills shortages continue to be a major concern for businesses and a drag on economic growth.
“The proposed new Growth and Skills Levy was a key part of the Government’s plans at the election. It’s welcome ministers have acted early to give more details about skills reform.
“We’ve long argued that the current Apprenticeship Levy needs urgent reform to make it more flexible. Businesses need a simple, coherent and responsive system that properly incentivises employer investment in training.
“To drive sustained economic growth, companies need a levy that funds training at all ages and skill levels. Any imbalance in the system will impact business investment.
“Higher level apprenticeships provide a non-academic pathway to progression for many people. We’ll be working with Government to make sure businesses have clarity on how Level 7 qualifications will be funded in the future.
“In the months ahead we’ll also be seeking reassurance that these planned reforms won’t place increased costs on businesses, who are still facing a challenging economic landscape.”
Find out more about our Essex LSIP here
