'LANDMARK DECISION' FOR INDUSTRY APPRENTICESHIPS

The Land-based Engineering Training & Education Committee (LE-TEC) have announced, in what they describe as a "significant development for the land-based engineering sector", that the Secretary of State for Education has officially approved revised funding levels for the standalone level 2 and level 3 apprenticeships.

In a statement LE-TEC, which is an industry appointed body sponsored by the AEA, BAGMA and IAgrE, said, "This landmark decision underscores the commitment to fostering skilled professionals in a crucial industry."

LE-TEC say after extensive negotiations and detailed submissions by their Apprenticeship Working Group, and following further scrutiny of the group’s comprehensive documentation and calculations, the Secretary of State for Education has "remarkably" revised the funding bands upwards. Funding levels are now set at £16,000 for level 2 and £15,000 for level 3. Previous levels recommended by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) were at £15,000 and £14,000, respectively

The new apprenticeship standards, spearheaded by the Working Group, have introduced a revised content and structure to the land-based engineering training programmes. Unlike the previous model which offered direct entry to either the level 2 apprenticeship, or the level 3, which incorporated the level 2, the revised standards offer a distinct pathway; a level 2 apprenticeship which is then followed by the level 3, if required. This approach, say LE-TEC, not only enhances flexibility for employers, but also allows apprentices to advance according to their career aspirations by achieving a level 2 in the first instance and then moving onto the level 3.

David Kirschner, independent consultant to the Land-based Engineering Sector praised the decision as a critical step forward. He said, “This increase in funding is not just a financial adjustment, it’s a recognition of the value and unique skills provided by the land-based engineering sector. It helps address the urgent need for skilled service technicians and engineers, ensuring the sustainability of apprenticeship programs vital to our industry’s future.”

The funding adjustment marks a 48% increase compared to the previous funding model, which was set at £21,000 for the level 3, which incorporated the level 2. LE-TEC say this enhancement is expected to significantly bolster the industry’s ability to recruit, develop and retain talent, so urgently needed for the sector. 

Also approved by IfATE is the funding of a progression pathway for students completing the new land-based engineering T-Level, who will be able to progress onto a fast-track apprenticeship should they wish to do so. The dovetailing of the qualifications means that training providers will assess a student’s individual skills gap for those who wish to progress on to the level 3 apprenticeship straight from a T-Level. The training provider will put together a 12 month programme to cover the deficit skills and knowledge. Again, a huge achievement for the LE-TEC Working Group.

A LE-TEC statement concluded, "The success of this initiative highlights the power of industry commitment and collaborative efforts in achieving meaningful outcomes. The revised funding structure promises to support a new generation of skilled professionals equipped to meet the evolving demands of the land-based engineering sector.

"A truly incredible achievement for the LE-TEC Working Group, who worked tirelessly on the re-writing of our qualifications which remain distinct and unique from other equipment and machinery-based courses."