DfE Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for Apprentices – What This Means for Providers
Key Changes to Functional Skills Requirements
The government is set to introduce Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for Apprentices set out by the DfE for adult apprentices (19+). Under these changes, passing Functional Skills English and maths will no longer be a mandatory requirement for completing an apprenticeship, making these qualifications optional. However, apprentices aged 16–18 will still need to work towards these qualifications.
This policy shift will have a considerable impact on apprenticeship providers, as it is expected to reduce the number of learners needing Functional Skills exams. With lower exam demand, maintaining in-house testing facilities may no longer be financially practical.
Impact on Training Providers
Decline in Exam Numbers
Since fewer adult apprentices will be required to take Functional Skills exams, training providers can anticipate a reduction in exam volumes.
Financial Challenges of In-House Testing
Running internal exams comes with substantial fixed costs, including fees for exam boards, administrative staff salaries, and per-exam expenses. With fewer learners sitting these exams, continuing to operate an in-house system may become unsustainable. A more cost-effective solution would be switching to a pay-per-exam service, such as Pass Functional Skills (PFS).
A More Affordable Approach: Pay-Per-Exam Services
Relaxed Functional Skills Rules mean a pay-per-exam model eliminates unnecessary operational costs by removing the need for:
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Annual exam board fees
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Dedicated administrative staff
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Internal exam management
With this approach, providers only incur costs when a learner requires an exam, ensuring compliance while significantly reducing expenses.
Adapting to the New Functional Skills Framework
Relaxed Functional Skills Rules marks a significant shift in apprenticeship regulations, removing a potential hurdle for completion. However, for training providers, continuing in-house exam management may no longer be cost-effective.
By transitioning to a pay-per-exam system, providers can streamline their approach, lower operational costs, and adapt efficiently to the updated Functional Skills framework.
Learn More
To explore a cost-effective, fully managed Functional Skills exam solution, contact Pass Functional Skills today at 020 4574 9155 or fill out the contact form below. One of our provider specialists will be in touch to discuss how these Relaxed Functional Skills Rules may affect your organisation.
MME Team
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