The National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) welcomes the government’s announcement that it will remove the requirement for Maths and English qualifications for apprentices over the age of 19 where employers deem it appropriate.
This long-overdue change will open opportunities for thousands of aspiring apprentices each year, addressing a significant barrier that has historically prevented many skilled individuals from entering the workforce. By removing this restriction, the government is taking an important step toward tackling the industry’s skills shortage and ensuring a more inclusive and accessible pathway into construction and home improvement careers.
Anna Scothern, Chief Executive of NHIC, commented:
“For too long, the requirement for Maths and English qualifications has been a barrier to many talented individuals with the skills, passion, and commitment to succeed in construction and home improvement. This change will help employers unlock new talent, support skills development, and strengthen the workforce needed to meet the UK’s low carbon and housing retrofit ambitions by allowing employers to assess apprentices’ practical ability. We look forward to working with government and industry to ensure these reforms deliver lasting benefits for apprentices, employers, and the wider sector.”
As an organisation committed to competency, compliance, and consumer confidence, NHIC recognises that practical skills and workplace learning are often the most valuable aspects of an apprenticeship. This policy shift will allow employers to focus on developing talent based on capability and hands-on experience rather than being restricted by academic entry barriers.
We look forward to working with government, employers, and industry leaders to ensure that apprenticeship pathways remain rigorous, high-quality, and aligned with industry needs—ultimately supporting the delivery of high-standard home improvement, retrofit, and Net Zero goals.
For more details, read the government announcement here