GROWTH AND SKILLS LEVY

If you’re a Levy employer – Don’t let your apprenticeship funding go to waste. Any unused funds that enter your levy pot after 1st August 2026 will expire within 12 months —so now is the time to invest in your workforce, develop new talent, and upskill existing employees before it’s too late.

Once your levy funds have been used, you’ll normally need to contribute 25% of the apprenticeship training costs, with the government funding the remaining 75%. Making the most of your levy balance now can help you maximise your investment and reduce future training costs.

Not a levy-paying employer – There’s even more good news. Apprenticeship training is fully funded for all learners aged 24 and under, giving your business the opportunity to recruit and develop the next generation of skilled professionals with no training costs.

Whether you’re looking to fill skills gaps, boost productivity, or future-proof your workforce, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of the funding available. Please take a look at the link below to find out more.
The Growth and Skills Levy explained

 

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT

We’re pleased to introduce the new Administration Assistant Level 2 Apprenticeship, available for learners aged 24 and under. This apprenticeship is designed to equip apprentices with the essential skills needed to succeed in a modern administrative role, this programme is ideal for those starting their career.

Apprentices will develop knowledge in communication, customer service, digital systems, record keeping and workplace professionalism, giving them the confidence to support businesses across a wide range of sectors while building a strong foundation for future career progression.

If you’re an employer looking to develop new talent or upskill your workforce, get in touch to find out how this apprenticeship can benefit your organisation.
Key information – L2 Administration Assistant

 

HELP SHAPE FUTURE APPRENTICESHIP ASSESSMENTS

The traditional end-point assessment (EPA) model is changing and NCFE are looking for employers to help shape the new assessments for:

  • Level 2 Community Activator Coach
  • Level 3 Leisure Duty Manager
  • Level 3 Personal Trainer
  • Level 4 Sports Coach

By taking part in a short-survey, you as an employer, can help influence future apprenticeship assessments across the sector.

Interested? Get in touch to find out more or register your interest below.
Expression of Interest Form

QUARTERLY AWARDS

APPRENTICE OF THE QUARTER

 

Congratulations to William Bleasdale, our Apprentice of the Quarter, who has successfully completed the Leisure Team Member apprenticeship and is now at End Point Assessment for the Leisure Duty Manager apprenticeship. Throughout his learning journey, he has shown outstanding commitment and dedication, consistently engaging with reviews, applying his learning in the workplace, and developing his knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills while taking on greater responsibility.

 

EMPLOYER OF THE QUARTER

Well done to North Yorkshire Council – Turkish Baths Harrogate, our Employer of the Quarter, for their outstanding support throughout the apprenticeship. The apprentice’s manager, having successfully completed the same apprenticeship, provides valuable guidance, practical advice, and ongoing encouragement, helping the apprentice confidently apply their learning in the workplace. Alongside consistently engaging in progress reviews, they create excellent opportunities for the apprentice to develop their knowledge, skills, and behaviours through meaningful workplace experiences, demonstrating a genuine commitment to their development and success. 

 

LOCAL RISKS AND CONCERNS

HEATWAVE? THINK BEFORE YOU TAKE THE PLUNGE

Summer heat can affect everyone, whether you’re an apprentice working in leisure facility, office, customer service or spending time outdoors.

Hot weather can increase the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, so it’s important for all apprentices and employers to take steps to stay safe.

Employers should support apprentices by encouraging regular hydration, awareness of heat-related illnesses and safe working practices. Apprentices should also take care of their own wellbeing outside of work, particularly when taking part in outdoor or open water activities, which are often more popular at weekends. Always consider changing conditions, water temperatures and personal safety before taking part.

For more information see the the guidance links provided.

RNLI Open Water Swimming Safety Guide
NHS Heatwave Advice
 

 

STAYING SAFE: UNDERSTANDING THE PREVENT DUTY

Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment. The Prevent programme helps safeguard people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation by providing early support before concerns escalate.

The current UK terrorism threat level is SEVERE, meaning an attack is considered highly likely. Apprentices and employers should remain aware, follow workplace safeguarding and security procedures, and know how to report any concerns.

By staying informed and promoting respect and inclusion, we can all help create safer environments for colleagues, customers and communities.

UK National Threat Level
Prevent Duty Training
Prevent Duty Guidance

SUPPORT & GUIDANCE
You asked — and we listened. We’re now offering PICS Portfolio support sessions for both learners and employers, delivered online via Microsoft Teams. These sessions are designed to help with portfolio progress, evidence requirements, and any questions you may have about using PICS confidently. The available sessions are listed to the right, and everyone is welcome to join the session.
19th November 2026 – 2pm
If you have any questions or queries about the content of this newsletter, please get in touch with us on 01262 602598 — we’re happy to help.