Eligible non-levy paying employers may be able to receive:
✅ Up to £2,000 when recruiting a new apprentice aged 16-24
✅ An additional £1,000 support payment for apprentices aged 16-18
✅ 100% funded apprenticeship training for eligible apprentices aged 16-24
✅ Up to £3,000 in government incentives for eligible apprentice hires
✅ Access fully funded training
✅ Recruit new talent or upskill existing employees
✅ Fill skills gaps and build future capability
✅ Improve productivity and employee retention
✅ Free recruitment support
✅ Expert support from our Apprenticeship Business Advisors
Whether you're looking to recruit your first apprentice or develop your existing workforce, our team can help you understand the funding, incentives and apprenticeship options available to your business.
We'll help you:
✅ Identify the funding and incentives you may be eligible for
✅ Explore apprenticeship options for new and existing employees
✅ Understand the apprenticeship recruitment process
✅ Find the right solution for your business needs
✅ Access ongoing support from our team
As a trusted provider of Apprenticeships and business support across the North West and beyond, we have:
Learners Supported
Businesses Supported
Course Enrolments
If your pay bill is under £3 million you’re non-levy paying
Not always.
If you’re a non-levy paying SME and you have an apprentice aged between 16-24 then you will not for apprenticeship training and assessment. However, if you apprentice is 25+ you will typically pay 5% of the training and assessment fees.
In March 2026 the Government announced an SME incentive of £2000 for each new 16-24 apprentice hire as part of its youth employment package. There are also a variety of other incentives available, which GC Education and Skills can help identify for you.
No.
Apprenticeships are available for all ages and career stages which includes existing employees.
Yes.
Apprenticeships can be used to upskill current employees as long as the training delivers new knowledge and skills for their role.
Apprenticeship standards vary in length and is also dependent on individual learning and experience. Standards have a minimum duration and off the job training requirements.
Not necessarily.
Off the job training is protected paid time, however it can be delivered flexibly such as in blocks, part days or blended learning.
This could include learning and development activities directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard such as teaching, coaching, practical training and assignments.