Nearly half of England’s apprentices are over 25

Apprenticeship Central has highlighted new figures from the House of Commons Library which reveal that 48% of apprenticeship starts in England are now aged 25 and over, signalling a major shift in how businesses are using apprenticeships.

Traditionally seen as a pathway for school leavers, apprenticeships are increasingly being used to develop and retain existing employees. Many learners are already in post when they enrol, with training spanning technical roles through to leadership positions.

Apprenticeship Central suggests this trend is expected to accelerate following changes to apprenticeship funding rules, which came into effect on 1 August.

Updates include:

• Removal of the requirement for apprentices aged 19 and over to study or pass English and maths qualifications if they do not already hold GCSEs.
• Access for part-time employees, with greater flexibility in training delivery.
• Accelerated apprenticeships for experienced workers, which can be completed in as little as eight months.
• Continued 100% National Insurance relief for apprentices aged 16–24.

These changes aim to make apprenticeships more accessible and adaptable, enabling businesses to upskill their workforce in a cost-effective way while boosting productivity and long-term resilience.

Eleanor Baker Barnes, Commercial Director at Apprenticeship Central, said, “While school leavers remain a vital source of fresh talent, employers now have greater flexibility to support employees at every career stage. Apprenticeships continue to combine practical workplace experience with structured training, with costs often fully funded and supplemented by government incentives.”

Eleanor continued, “For employers, the benefits are clear: teams with apprentices report stronger retention, higher morale and sustainable talent pipelines – with apprentices frequently delivering value from day one.”