Introduction: Updates to Functional Skills Requirements

The government has introduced Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for apprentices, as outlined by the DfE. These changes mean that adult apprentices (aged 19 and over) may no longer need to pass Functional Skills English and maths to complete their apprenticeship. While these qualifications are still required for apprentices aged 16–18, they are now optional for those aged 19 and older.

This shift will have a notable impact on apprenticeship providers, leading to fewer learners taking Functional Skills exams. As a result, maintaining in-house testing facilities may no longer be financially feasible due to a reduced number of exam candidates.

Impact on Training Providers

Reduced Exam Participation

With fewer adult apprentices required to complete Functional Skills exams under the Relaxed Functional Skills Rules, training providers will likely see a decline in exam registrations.

Higher Costs for In-House Testing

Running in-house exams involves fixed expenses such as exam board fees, administrative staff costs, and per-exam charges. With fewer learners taking exams, maintaining internal testing may become too expensive. A more cost-effective solution would be to switch to a pay-per-exam model, like Pass Functional Skills (PFS).

Cost-Effective Solution: Pay-Per-Exam with PFS

By adopting a pay-per-exam model like PFS, providers can save money by eliminating:

  • Annual exam board fees
  • Salaries for dedicated administrative staff
  • Overhead costs associated with running in-house exams

This approach allows providers to pay only when an exam is needed, ensuring they stay compliant while minimizing expenses.

Conclusion: Adapting to Functional Skills Changes

The DfE’s Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for apprentices mark a significant shift in policy, removing a key requirement for completing apprenticeships. However, for training providers, maintaining in-house exam services may no longer be financially sustainable.

By switching to a pay-per-exam system, providers can more easily 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 affect your organization.