Vocational education changes

Independent Work-Based Learning Model

What the Government’s changes to apprenticeships mean for you as a host business

The Government recently announced major changes to how apprenticeships and work-based training will be delivered. These changes are designed to give industries more control over training and ensure apprentices are learning the right skills for the job. 

As our host business, you will still play a vital role in helping apprentices build their practical skills on the job. So here’s what these changes mean for you and the apprentices you support.

A new industry-led training model is coming

From 1 January 2026, a new model will be introduced where:

• Training providers (like polytechnics and private training organisations) will take full responsibility for delivering apprenticeships — including enrolment, training, and support.
• Industry Skills Boards will be set up to ensure training stays relevant and meets industry needs.

This means training will be more aligned with what’s actually happening on worksites like yours.

ATT’s role isn’t changing

ATT will continue to:

• Employ the apprentices and manage their employment obligations.
• Work directly with training providers to coordinate off-job learning.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and pastoral care to support apprentices throughout their journey.

So, while the system around us is changing, your relationship with ATT and your role as a host business will stay consistent.

What you can expect

• No disruption to current apprentices — they’ll continue their training as usual.
• More industry input into training content and standards, which should mean apprentices are better prepared for the real-world tasks you need them to do.
• A smoother experience over time, as the new model aims to reduce duplication and confusion across the system.

And what you don’t need to worry about

• You don’t need to manage training provider relationships — ATT will continue to do that.
• You don’t need to navigate the new system — we’ll guide apprentices through the changes and keep you informed.

In summary

The government’s changes are aiming to improve the system — not disrupt it. As a host business, your role remains essential, and ATT will continue to handle the employment, training coordination, and support side of things. 

If you have any questions or want to know more about how this might affect your hosted apprentices, feel free to reach out to your ATT contact.

 

FAQs

Will these changes affect the apprentices currently hosted at my business?

No. Apprentices currently in training will continue as normal. ATT will still manage their employment, training coordination, and support. You’ll continue to provide the on-the-job experience they need.

Do I need to change how I work with ATT or the apprentice?

Not at all. Your role as a host business remains the same. ATT will continue to be your main point of contact and will handle all training provider relationships and system changes behind the scenes.

Will the training providers change?

Possibly over time. The new model allows more providers to deliver apprenticeships, but ATT will ensure any transitions are smooth and that apprentices are always enrolled with quality-assured providers.