The government has confirmed that they will axe English and maths functional skills requirements for adult apprentices, marking a significant shift in apprenticeship policy. Following years of lobbying from employers, the Department for Education (DfE) confirmed that apprentices aged 19 and older at the start of their apprenticeship will no longer be required to pass Level 2 functional skills in English and maths to complete their apprenticeship.
Under the current rules, if the apprentice did not pass these subjects at GCSE, those on a Level 2 programme must achieve Level 1 functional skills qualifications, while those on Level 3 or higher apprenticeships must achieve Level 2 functional skills. Under the new rules, these requirements will become optional for those aged 19 plus, allowing them to focus more on their paid work and occupa- tional training. Importantly, apprentices aged 16 to 18, will still need to meet the existing requirements. The DFE has issued a statement confirming that training providers are expected to discuss the change with employers and apprentices and agree with them whether to continue with functional skills or not, and that training providers are expected to discuss the change with employers and apprentices and agree with them whether to continue with functional skills or not.
According to the DfE, the reform is expected to unlock opportunities for up to 10,000 additional apprentices annually and employers will have greater flexibility in deciding whether English and maths qualifications are necessary for their apprentices’ roles. While the core literacy and numeracy skills relevant to specific occupations will still be assessed, the removal of mandatory exit requirements aims to reduce barriers that have previously led to high dropout rates.
The DfE emphasised that this reform does not diminish the importance of literacy and numeracy but instead removes an ‘arbitrary’ hurdle for adult learners. The move aligns with broader efforts to make apprenticeships more accessible and responsive to employer needs while addressing skills shortages in key industries.
This announcement coincides with National Ap- prenticeship Week 2025 and reflects the government’s commitment to boosting economic growth by streamlining apprenticeship pathways.