The news is in that from 1 August 2025, the world of apprenticeships will enter a transformative period as outlined in the Government’s Apprenticeship Funding Rules document dated August 2025 – July 2026.
Various changes are on the horizon, but one of the major overhauls is that the minimum length of an apprenticeship is being reduced from 12 months to just 8 months for new starters. This can be done as long as all of the key elements are ticked off, such as off-the-job training and completion of the final assessment.
This is paving the way for shorter, sharper and more flexible routes to qualification, especially for adults and those who want to upskill, who now no longer need to embark on a full year to get to where they want to be.
Alongside the change in duration, other changes can be seen across the board.
When it comes to off-the-job training hours, each apprenticeship standard will have its own set minimum hours published, no matter how long the programme runs.
Training will also have additional flexibility and will be delivered in a way that works for the business and the learner, as long as the minimum duration is met and the required training is completed.
When it comes to part-time apprentices, the rules now apply equally, and a programme doesn’t have to be extended just because an apprentice is part-time. It’s more about how training providers deliver and not for how long they do so.
Despite the fast-tracked process, this doesn’t mean that training providers can cut corners. The Government will still check in and ensure that off-the-job training is being delivered correctly. Providers will also need to tweak delivery models, curriculum planning and assessment timelines.
Speaking of the changes, Clare Vertigen, Managing Director of the South West Apprenticeship Company, a subsidiary of City of Bristol College, commented: “This change brings a huge opportunity; more flexibility, less red tape, and better routes into skilled roles for more people. But, as ever, the magic will be in how it’s delivered.
“If you’re an employer wondering how this affects your plans, don’t panic – we are already working through what this means and how we can support.
“We’ll be sharing more as the funding rules and guidance are finalised, but for now, just know that change is coming, and it could be a game-changer for many.”
To discover how the Apprenticeship Team at City of Bristol College can take your business to the next level, simply call 01173125250 or email apprentice@cityofbristol.ac.uk.
