'Unfair' apprenticeship funding under review

Tuesday, 6 January 2026 10:50

A review of funding for apprenticeships in Jersey is underway after a report highlighted concerns of unfairness.

The Education Minister says a new financial support system for apprenticeships is needed, now that a wider range of courses and qualifications are available.

Financial support available currently depends on the level of qualification.

However, a recent report highlighted concerns about unfairness, as apprenticeships now span higher levels of education, which are eligible for more, or different types, of funding.

For example, higher education and higher apprenticeships are supported by means-tested grants, whilst apprenticeships at Levels 2-3 receive a fixed grant. For Level 2-3, overall funding is capped each year.

The limited budget for Level 2-3 and the first-come-first-served approach were viewed as a barrier to access, especially compared to more generous support for higher-level training, where funding is made available to match demand.

This disparity gave the impression that lower-level apprenticeships are undervalued, despite their importance to the local workforce.

It also found a widespread perception of funding inequities for apprenticeships at Levels 2 and 3, compared to alternative options at the same level.

Deputy Rob Ward says '...apprenticeships now span a wide range of education levels, from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE) through to postgraduate degree level. This shift highlights the need to reconsider how funding is allocated and calculated.'

A review will include calls from industry representatives for help with the costs of training, which can vary significantly by sector.

It will work towards a financial support system that is 'straightforward', 'practical', and designed to meet the needs of those who use it.