Introduction: Key Changes to Functional Skills Requirements

The government has implemented Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for Apprentices, as set out by the DfE. Under these new regulations, adult apprentices (aged 19 and over) may no longer need to pass Functional Skills English and maths to complete their apprenticeship. While these qualifications remain compulsory for 16–18-year-olds, they are now optional for adults.

This policy change will significantly affect apprenticeship providers, reducing the number of learners sitting Functional Skills exams. As a result, maintaining in-house testing facilities may become financially unfeasible due to lower exam participation.

Effects on Training Providers

Decrease in Exam Participation

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

Higher Costs for In-House Testing

Running in-house exams involves fixed expenses such as exam board fees, administrative staffing costs, and per-exam charges. With fewer learners taking these exams, maintaining internal testing may no longer be cost-effective. A more practical alternative is switching to a pay-per-exam service like Pass Functional Skills (PFS).

Cost-Effective Alternative: Pay-Per-Exam Model with PFS

Transitioning to a pay-per-exam model like PFS allows providers to cut unnecessary costs, removing the need for:

  • Annual exam board fees
  • Dedicated administrative staff salaries
  • Overhead costs of running in-house exams

Instead, providers only pay when an exam is required, ensuring compliance while optimizing costs.

Conclusion: Adjusting to Functional Skills Regulation Changes

The DfE’s Relaxed Functional Skills Rules for Apprentices mark a significant shift, removing a key requirement for apprenticeship completion. However, for training providers, sustaining in-house exam operations may no longer be financially viable.

By adopting a pay-per-exam model, providers can effectively adapt to these changes, minimize costs, and streamline Functional Skills assessments.

Learn More

Contact Pass Functional Skills today at 020 4574 9155 to explore an affordable, 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 impact your organization.