Member

It is the Government’s intention that light-touch standards for dismissal during the statutory probationary period will apply to all employees. Therefore, we do not think it appropriate to differentiate and treat apprentices under the age of 21 differently. The Government are committed to making sure apprenticeships work for learners and employers and are transforming the apprenticeship levy into a new growth and skills levy that will deliver greater flexibility, aligned with the industrial strategy. We have pledged some £46 million to that new levy. It will include shorter duration and foundation apprenticeships in key sectors, helping more people to learn new high-quality skills at work, fuelling innovation in businesses across the country, and providing high-quality pathways for young people.