Introduction: Updates to Functional Skills Requirements
The government has introduced Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for apprentices, as outlined by the DfE. Under these revised regulations, adult apprentices (aged 19 and over) are no longer required to pass Functional Skills English and maths to complete their apprenticeship. While these qualifications remain mandatory for apprentices aged 16–18, they are now optional for adults.
This change will significantly affect apprenticeship providers, with fewer learners required to take Functional Skills exams. As a result, maintaining in-house testing facilities may no longer be financially viable due to the reduced number of exam participants.
Impact on Training Providers
Reduction in Exam Numbers
With the Relaxed Functional Skills Rules now in effect, fewer adult apprentices will be required to complete Functional Skills exams, leading to a decline in exam registrations for training providers.
Increased Costs for In-House Testing
In-house testing involves fixed costs, including exam board fees, administrative salaries, and per-exam charges. With fewer learners taking exams, sustaining internal testing services may no longer be cost-effective. Switching to a pay-per-exam service like Pass Functional Skills (PFS) could be a more affordable alternative.
Cost-Effective Solution: Pay-Per-Exam with PFS
The pay-per-exam model, such as PFS, helps providers save money by eliminating:
Annual exam board fees
Salaries for dedicated administrative staff
Overhead costs associated with running in-house exams
Providers only pay when an exam is needed, ensuring compliance while keeping costs in check.
Conclusion: Adapting to Functional Skills Changes
The Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for apprentices mark a significant policy shift, removing a major requirement for apprenticeship completion. However, for training providers, maintaining in-house exam operations may no longer be financially viable.
By transitioning to a pay-per-exam model, providers can adjust to these changes, reduce costs, and streamline the Functional Skills assessment process.
Find Out More
Contact Pass Functional Skills today at 020 4574 9155 to learn more about a cost-effective, fully managed Functional Skills exam solution. Alternatively, fill out the contact form below, and one of our specialists will reach out to discuss how the Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for apprentices may impact your organization.