Exciting New Apprenticeship Opportunities Announced by the DWP | B&FC
Source: http://www.blackpool.ac.uk/news/dwp-apprenticeship-funding-updates
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:18
Exciting New Apprenticeship Opportunities Announced by the DWP | B&FC
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Apprenticeship Funding Enhancements to Boost Opportunities for Young People
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a series of significant updates to apprenticeship funding and delivery, designed to boost opportunities for young people and strengthen the future workforce.
These changes introduce new financial incentives for employers,
alongside the launch of flexible apprenticeship units
- short, skills‑focused training options funded through the newly reformed Growth and Skills Levy (which replaces the Apprenticeship Levy in April 2026).
Current Apprentices Unaffected
Businesses working with Blackpool and The Fylde College can be reassured that any employees already enrolled on an apprenticeship will remain fully funded. The changes apply only to new apprenticeship starts.
Enhanced Funding for Employers
As part of a wider government commitment to helping young people into work
- including £1 billion of new Youth Guarantee funding - several major incentives have been confirmed:
£2,000 payment for SMEs recruiting an apprentice aged 16–24
Two new foundation apprenticeships (hospitality and retail) to meet high‑demand skills gaps
A new Level 2 Business Admin apprenticeship exclusively for 16–24 year‑olds, launching August 2026
These reforms aim to reverse a decade-long decline in apprenticeship participation among young people and help businesses bring new talent into their teams.
New Apprenticeship Units Launching Next Month
One of the most significant developments is the introduction of apprenticeship units which are flexible, short training courses based on existing occupational standards. For the first time, levy funds can be used for non‑apprenticeship training.
Eight units will be available from April:
AI Leadership - Developing AI Strategy
Battery Manufacturing
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Point Installation and Maintenance
Electrical Fitting and Assembly
Mechanical Fitting and Assembly
Permanent Modular Building Assembly
Solar PV Installation and Maintenance
Welding (Mechanised)
Units will last 1–16 weeks (30–140 learning hours) and will be open to employed learners aged 19+ whose employer has identified an immediate upskilling need. Non‑levy employers will be fully funded, while levy payers can use existing levy contributions.
Delivery will begin with a targeted group of high‑performing providers, with B&FC working closely with regulatory partners to ensure a smooth rollout.
Working With You Through the Changes
Our Business Development Team is also actively reviewing each announcement to ensure employers receive accurate, up‑to‑date guidance as further details emerge.
If you’d like to discuss what these incentives could mean for your organisation, we’re here to help.
Email:
business@blackpool.ac.uk
Call:
01253 504343
— ask for the Business Development Team
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Skip to main content
Apprenticeship Funding Enhancements to Boost Opportunities for Young People
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a series of significant updates to apprenticeship funding and delivery, designed to boost opportunities for young people and strengthen the future workforce.
These changes introduce new financial incentives for employers,
alongside the launch of flexible apprenticeship units
- short, skills‑focused training options funded through the newly reformed Growth and Skills Levy (which replaces the Apprenticeship Levy in April 2026).
Current Apprentices Unaffected
Businesses working with Blackpool and The Fylde College can be reassured that any employees already enrolled on an apprenticeship will remain fully funded. The changes apply only to new apprenticeship starts.
Enhanced Funding for Employers
As part of a wider government commitment to helping young people into work
- including £1 billion of new Youth Guarantee funding - several major incentives have been confirmed:
£2,000 payment for SMEs recruiting an apprentice aged 16–24
Two new foundation apprenticeships (hospitality and retail) to meet high‑demand skills gaps
A new Level 2 Business Admin apprenticeship exclusively for 16–24 year‑olds, launching August 2026
These reforms aim to reverse a decade-long decline in apprenticeship participation among young people and help businesses bring new talent into their teams.
New Apprenticeship Units Launching Next Month
One of the most significant developments is the introduction of apprenticeship units which are flexible, short training courses based on existing occupational standards. For the first time, levy funds can be used for non‑apprenticeship training.
Eight units will be available from April:
AI Leadership - Developing AI Strategy
Battery Manufacturing
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Point Installation and Maintenance
Electrical Fitting and Assembly
Mechanical Fitting and Assembly
Permanent Modular Building Assembly
Solar PV Installation and Maintenance
Welding (Mechanised)
Units will last 1–16 weeks (30–140 learning hours) and will be open to employed learners aged 19+ whose employer has identified an immediate upskilling need. Non‑levy employers will be fully funded, while levy payers can use existing levy contributions.
Delivery will begin with a targeted group of high‑performing providers, with B&FC working closely with regulatory partners to ensure a smooth rollout.
Working With You Through the Changes
Our Business Development Team is also actively reviewing each announcement to ensure employers receive accurate, up‑to‑date guidance as further details emerge.
If you’d like to discuss what these incentives could mean for your organisation, we’re here to help.
Email:
business@blackpool.ac.uk
Call:
01253 504343
— ask for the Business Development Team
Scroll to Top
Go to Latest News
Share this article
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