Financial support for apprenticeships

There is a range of financial support available to help businesses in Kent and Medway invest in apprenticeships. This includes government funding, apprenticeship levy options, and local support offers.

Understanding how funding works can help you reduce costs and maximise the value of training in your business.

Government funding for apprenticeships

Most employers receive significant financial support from the government to cover apprenticeship training costs.

• The government typically pays the majority of training costs
• Employers usually contribute a small percentage of the total
• In some cases, training can be fully funded

This support applies to both new hires and existing employees undertaking an apprenticeship.

To access funding, all employers must set up and use the apprenticeship service.

Manage apprenticeship funding and access support

The apprenticeship levy

The apprenticeship levy applies to larger employers with an annual pay bill over £3 million.

If you pay the levy:

• You can use levy funds to pay for apprenticeship training
• Government adds a percentage top-up to your funds
• Funds must be used within a set timeframe

If you do not pay the levy:

• You can still access funding through government co-investment
• You typically pay a small contribution, with the government funding the rest

The apprenticeship levy puts employers in control of how funding is spent and which training providers to work with.

Learn how the apprenticeship levy works

Finding training and understanding costs

Funding levels vary depending on the apprenticeship you choose. Each apprenticeship has a funding band, which sets the maximum amount the government will contribute.

You can compare training costs and funding options using the national service:

Search apprenticeship training courses and funding levels

This allows you to:

• Compare courses by role or sector
• View funding bands and costs
• Find approved training providers

Local funding support in Kent and Medway

In addition to national funding, local partners can help you access financial support and make the most of your investment.

Kent County Council support

• Advice on funding and apprenticeship options
• Support with levy transfers
• Help identifying the right training programmes

Get support to hire an apprentice in Kent

Levy transfer opportunities

Some employers can access transferred levy funding from larger organisations.

This may:

• Reduce or remove your training costs
• Support SMEs and voluntary sector organisations
• Be available through local partnerships

Medway Council Apprenticeship Advice Service

Provides tailored advice on:

• Funding options and incentives
• Understanding costs
• Making the most of available support

Access Medway apprenticeship advice and funding guidance

Additional financial incentives

Depending on the apprentice and business circumstances, additional support may be available, including:

• Funding for younger apprentices or priority groups
• Support for English and maths training
• Incentives linked to recruitment or workforce development

Local advisors can help identify what your business is eligible for.