What Management Apprenticeship Funding Changes Mean For Your Business
18th March 2026
Significant changes to apprenticeship funding are on the horizon, impacting some of the most widely used leadership and management programmes in England. If you’re an employer looking to upskill your team, these updates are important to understand. Here’s what’s changing, what it means for you, and how you can take advantage before the deadline.
With demand for leadership and management skills continuing to rise across industries, these apprenticeships have played a key role in developing confident, capable managers. This upcoming change represents a shift in priorities, making it even more important to plan ahead and secure places while funding is still available.
What's Changing From September 2026?
From September 2026, the government has announced that funding will be withdrawn from a number of existing leadership and management apprenticeship standards across the training provider network.
If you are already enrolled on one of these programmes, there is no need to worry - all current learners will continue to be fully funded through to completion.
Which Apprenticeships Are Affected?
The apprenticeships impacted by this change are:
Level 3 Apprenticeships
- Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship
- Level 3 Team Leader for Retail
- Level 3 Team Leader for Jewellery Retail
- Level 3 Team Leader for Beauty Retail
- Level 3 Team Leader with Visual Merchandising
Level 5 Apprenticeships
These programmes have grown significantly in recent years and are commonly used as continuing professional development for employees aged 25 and over.
What This Means for Employers & Learners
This shift reflects a wider government strategy to:
- Refocus investment on younger learners
- Address critical skill gaps
- Create new opportunities for individuals and employees
- Create clearer pathways into skilled jobs
Apply Before the Deadline
At Education for Industry Training, we will continue to accept applications for these apprenticeships up until 1st September 2026. Please note that spaces will be limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged. Please email sara.harris@efitraining.co.uk to find out more!
We’re Here to Support You
We understand that changes like this can raise questions. Our team is here to guide you through your options, help you identify the right programme and support you every step of the way.
We remain committed to supporting both learners and employers through this transition, ensuring continued access to high-quality training and development opportunities.
If you or your team are considering one of these apprenticeships, now is the time to act. Contact sara.harris@efitraining.co.uk to find out more.
They strive to encourage our learners to excel, and I am proud to say we have achieved fantastic apprenticeship results over the past 5 years
Talent Development Team, Harrods