Hiring an Apprentice Just Got Even Better

Businesses looking to recruit and develop a new apprentice could benefit from significant changes to apprenticeship funding coming this year.

Grants for employers when taking on an apprentice

From 1 August 2026, eligible non-levy-paying employers will be able to access 100% government-funded apprenticeship training when recruiting apprentices aged 16–24. This means eligible employers can train the next generation of skilled professionals without contributing towards the cost of apprenticeship training.

The support doesn’t stop there. From 1 October 2026, eligible employers may also receive a £2,000 hiring incentive for each eligible new apprentice aged under 25, with the payment backdated to apprentices who start from 1 July 2026. These changes provide even greater financial support, making it easier for businesses to invest in their future workforce.

Eligible Employers Could Access Up to £8,000 in Financial Support

The latest apprenticeship funding reforms make recruiting an apprentice one of the most cost-effective ways to grow your workforce. Depending on the apprentice’s age and circumstances, eligible employers may be able to access a range of financial incentives in addition to fully funded training.

£2,000 hiring incentive

For each eligible new apprentice aged under 25.

£1,000 additional payment

For apprentices aged 16–18, or those aged 19–24 who are care leavers or have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan.

£2,000 incentive

For each eligible Foundation Apprentice recruited.

£3,000 Youth Jobs Grant

For eligible young people aged 18–24 who have been claiming Universal Credit for six months or more.

100% government-funded apprenticeship training

For eligible apprentices aged under 25 from 1 August 2026.

No employer National Insurance contributions

On eligible earnings paid to apprentices under the age of 25.

£3,000 bursary

Available to eligible care leavers starting an apprenticeship.

Please note: Eligibility criteria apply. Funding is subject to current government apprenticeship funding rules.

Combined, these measures mean eligible employers could access up to £8,000 in financial support, alongside fully funded apprenticeship training. This can significantly reduce the cost of recruiting, training and developing new talent, making apprenticeships an affordable and effective way to strengthen your workforce and invest in future skills.

By recruiting apprentices, businesses can:

Develop employees with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for their organisation.
Address current and future skills shortages.
Increase staff retention and loyalty through career development opportunities.
Build a skilled, future-ready workforce while investing in the next generation of talent.
Benefit from government funding and financial incentives, where eligible.

For apprentices, these programmes provide the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification while earning a salary and developing valuable workplace experience, helping them build the skills and confidence needed for a successful career.

Shout Out to employers taking on a new apprentice

How ASA Training Can Support Your Business

At ASA Training, we work closely with employers to recruit, train and support apprentices throughout their learning journey.

We currently deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes in:

Dental Nursing
Early Years

Our experienced team supports both employers and apprentices every step of the way, from recruitment and onboarding through to successful completion. We are committed to helping businesses develop confident, capable professionals while meeting their workforce needs.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Recruit an Apprentice?

With enhanced funding becoming available from August and additional employer incentives from October, there has never been a better time to consider apprenticeships as part of your recruitment and workforce development strategy.

Whether you’re looking to recruit new talent or you already have someone in mind who is eager to gain a recognised qualification or ready to take the next step in their career, we can help. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to develop existing employees as well as welcome new ones into your organisation.

If you’re thinking about growing your team or investing in your current workforce, we’d be happy to discuss the options available, explain the latest funding changes and help you check your eligibility.