Hiring an apprentice is a great way for your business to develop a talented, motivated, and skilled workforce; and you can access government funding to help cover apprenticeship training and assessment costs.

There are a range of funding options available, and the amount your business receives will depend on whether you pay the apprenticeship levy or not.

From 11 January 2022 you will also be able to apply for a payment of £3,000 for hiring an apprentice with an employment start date between 1 October 2021 and 31 January 2022.

This payment is in addition to the £1,000 your business will receive for taking on an apprentice who is aged 16 to 18 years old or under 25 and has an education, health and care plan or has been in the care of their local authority.

If your apprentice is under 25 you may also be exempt from paying Class 1 National Insurance contributions.

Access apprenticeship funding: Find out more

Find out about the apprenticeships available for the fashion and textile sector in England here.