Skills minister Jacqui Smith discusses reforms

 

 

 

V Levels Launch: A new vocational qualification, V Levels, will be introduced to streamline technical education and build on the strengths of existing BTECs and T Levels. 

 

Modular Apprenticeship Units: From April 2026, employers will be able to access short, modular training units—branded as apprenticeship units—funded through the revamped Growth and Skills Levy. 

 

These units are designed to offer flexible, high-quality training options in priority sectors such as engineering, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence. 

 

The courses will typically range from one week to several months in duration, and are intended to complement full apprenticeships. They will be built around employer-led occupational standards, ensuring that the content is relevant, rigorous, and quality-assured. 

 

Baroness Smith emphasized that these units will give employers confidence in both the legitimacy and effectiveness of the training. While full details are still being finalized, she assured the sector that Skills England will release further guidance soon. 

 

During the panel discussion, Ben Rowland, CEO of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers, expressed cautious interest: 

 

“I’m not sure about how a one-week programme will work as an apprenticeship unit. I’ll be interested to see how that is developed.” 

 

Lifelong Learning Commitment: The government reaffirmed its support for lifelong learning, with plans to expand access to adult education and retraining opportunities. 

 

Tackling NEETs: With over 900,000 young people currently not in education, employment, or training (NEET), targeted interventions will be rolled out to address this growing concern. 

 

Skills Gap Solutions: The White Paper proposes closer collaboration between colleges, training providers, and employers to align education with labour market needs. 

 

Functional Skills Review: A mini-commission will investigate the viability and delivery of functional skills, which remain a challenge for many providers. 

 

 

Following the ministerial interview, a panel of sector leaders discussed the implications of the reforms. There was cautious optimism about the potential of V Levels and the modular apprenticeship units, but concerns remain about funding, implementation timelines, and the capacity of providers to adapt.