London to Host WorldSkills UK National Finals 2027 with Call for Training Provider Entries
New research by the Institute for Fiscal Studies suggests that approximately 25% of UK graduates may face negative financial returns from their university education, particularly those studying creative and performing arts subjects. While most graduates can expect to earn £100,000 more over their lifetimes, student loans and taxes mean a significant minority would have been better off financially without attending university.
The Department for Work and Pensions is reconsidering the 30/70 funding model for larger apprenticeship units following early feedback from providers. Kate Ridley-Pepper confirmed officials are actively exploring alternatives to address concerns about the financial burden on training providers.
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith has indicated that further restrictions on apprenticeship funding, including potential age caps and defunding measures, remain possible despite not being actively planned "at the moment". The comments suggest ongoing uncertainty for further education providers and local authorities working to secure stable training pathways for young people.