UK apprenticeship funding guide for 2026
Apprenticeship levy, government top-ups, and regional grants explained—plus how to track apprentice progress and milestones in Toolfy.
Not financial advice
Pricing guidance here is educational. Model rate changes against your own books, suppliers, and market before implementing them.
UK apprenticeship funding guide for 2026
Apprentices are perfect for scaling crews, but the funding rules are messy. Here’s the nutshell version for small trade businesses.
Funding options
- Levy transfer – Large firms can transfer up to 25% of their levy to you.
- Government co-investment – Gov pays 95% of training costs for non-levy payers.
- Regional grants – e.g., £3k incentives in some councils; check Local Enterprise Partnership.
Action plan
- Pick a training provider (check RoATP list).
- Register on the Apprenticeship Service (AS) portal.
- Apply for co-investment or connect with levy donor.
- Track apprentice progress in Toolfy tasks (modules, jobs, assessments).
Sample tracking board
- Columns: Induction, 3-month, 6-month, 12-month
- Cards: Name + checklist of required competencies
- Attach photos/job notes as evidence
Payroll reminder
- Apprentices under 19 (or in first year) get minimum wage at apprentice rate.
- Track hours in Toolfy timesheets and export to payroll monthly.
Need the tracking board template? Email support@toolfy.io and we’ll copy it into your account.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This guide is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice of any kind (legal, financial, tax, insurance, or otherwise).
Before making business decisions: Consult with qualified professionals (solicitors, accountants, insurance brokers, etc.) who can assess your specific circumstances. Laws, regulations, and industry standards change frequently and vary by location and situation.
Toolfy and the article authors accept no liability for decisions made or actions taken based on information provided in this guide. You are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What apprenticeship funding options are available for small trade businesses?
How do I start an apprenticeship scheme for my business?
How should I track apprentice progress and milestones?
Need this workflow in Toolfy?
Spin up the exact checklist, scripts, and automations from this article inside your workspace.
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