Up to 10,000 people annually could qualify for apprenticeships as the UK government cuts red tape, giving employers greater flexibility on Maths and English requirements.

To fast-track workforce training in key sectors like construction, the UK’s apprenticeship rules will be updated as the government said it plans to boost growth industries with reduced bureaucracy for apprenticeships in an effort to boost economic growth.

The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months.

Businesses will also now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a level 2 English and Maths qualification (equivalent to GCSE) in order to pass it.

The UK’s Department of Education said this means more learners can qualify in high demand sectors such as healthcare, social care and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding.

“Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system and these reforms show that we are listening,” Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson said in a press release. “Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality, helping achieve our number one mission to grow the economy.”

The Department of Education emphasised that the changes do not mean that apprentices will not be assessed on core English and Maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean that apprentices will be able to focus more on their paid work.

The plans follow the prime minister’s announcement in September, when he pledged to reform the new growth and skills offer to ensure young people are better supported.   

“It is encouraging that the government is taking steps to repair the broken ladder of opportunity for young people, within its first year in power,” Recruitment and Employment Confederation Director of Campaigns Shazia Ejaz said in a press release. “There is an urgent need to build better routes to good-quality jobs for everyone who chooses to pursue employment and training after leaving school or college. To achieve this, we must bring employers closer to young people.”

Changes to the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be introduced from August 2025 subject to the legislative timetable, with changes to English and maths requirements coming into effect immediately.

“The rigid English and maths requirements for apprenticeships are deterring both employers and training providers from recruiting young people who have not yet met these standards, disproportionately affecting the most disadvantaged,” Ejaz added. “Moreover, the relevance of academic-style English and maths qualifications to many real-world workplaces is questionable.”

“The introduction of shorter apprenticeships is a positive step because it offers greater opportunities and flexibility for both employers and apprentices – which is needed to help economic growth,” Ejaz continued. “The business community is eagerly awaiting further details on how the new Growth and Skills Levy will support even more flexibility for employers and workers. More shorter, modular courses as well as apprenticeships will help many people to get into or progress in work.”

The education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has also announced that Phil Smith CBE, will chair Skills England, the new nationwide body for skills. Smith is the former chair and CEO of international tech and telecoms giant Cisco.