We are disappointed that among these changes is the decision to restrict Level 7 Apprenticeship funding to learners aged 16-21 from next January.

The science sector urgently requires highly trained employees. In life sciences and across our industrial landscape, engineering projects require a workforce capable of addressing complex challenges in a globally competitive environment. Cutting-edge research, the development of new pharmaceuticals, advances in engineering to support the transition to net-zero, and developments in artificial intelligence and digital technologies all demand expertly trained people. We are extremely concerned about the real-life consequences this decision.

These programmes provide a crucial pathway for individuals to gain high-level skills and practical experience, effectively bridging the gap between academic knowledge and its real-world application.  The loss of this opportunity will result in fewer avenues for talent development, potentially hindering innovation and progress in scientific research and development.

We understand the government’s aspiration to rebalance the skills system, and increase funding and support for lower-level training. However, employers across the country contribute more than £4 billion into the apprenticeship levy each year and have long called for the allocation of all levy funds to be used for apprenticeship training for all ages and at all levels.

We will continue to collaborate with our partners to advocate for our employers and emphasise the necessity of reversing this decision.
Other changes announced today include:

• a 32 per cent increase in the Immigration Skills Charge, which will deliver up to 45,000 additional training places to upskill the domestic workforce and reduce reliance on migration in priority sectors;
• £14 million of adult skills funding for construction to be devolved to local mayors for the next academic year, expected to support up to 5,000 additional adult learners;
• £136 million for Skills Bootcamps across a range of priority sectors in 2025-26, providing training to over 40,000 learners;
• £100 million over four years to expand Construction Skills Bootcamps;
• and 10 Technical Excellence Colleges specialising in construction skills, opening in September 2025.