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Photos: UHI Shetland, BE-ST, Abertay University, University of Edinburgh
The Scottish Government is investing an additional £8.8m in Modern Apprenticeships to give learning providers a 10% funding increase.
The uplift in contribution rates supports the training and assessment of any new and in-training Modern Apprentices from financial year 2027–28.
The announcement – made on 24 September by Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education, Alyn Smith – is the first stage of the Scottish Government’s review of Modern Apprenticeship contribution rates and compared public contributions with provider delivery costs, financial viability, and employer contributions.
Stage two of the government’s review will commence in 2027.
SDS administers Scottish Apprenticeships on behalf of Scottish Government, which incorporates Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs), Modern Apprenticeships (MAs), and Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs).
Skills Development Scotland’s Director of National Training Programmes, Diane Greenlees, said:
“Modern Apprenticeships are a vital investment in Scotland’s people, businesses, and economy.
“This additional funding is an important step in supporting their delivery and meeting Scottish Government’s commitment to 150,000 apprenticeships over the next five years.
“A strong provider network is essential to giving apprentices high-quality training and helping employers access the skills and talent they need to grow, innovate, and compete.”
The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) currently administers funding for Foundation Apprenticeships supported by colleges and funds the provision of Graduate Apprenticeships.
From 1 April 2027, responsibility for the delivery, administration, and funding of Scotland’s National Training Programmes will transfer from Skills Development Scotland (SDS) to the Scottish Funding Council (SFC).
SFC’s Interim Chief Executive, Paul Devoy, said:
“Scottish Government’s commitment to apprenticeships highlights their value to economic growth. We will continue to work with the government, SDS, learning providers, and partners to strengthen the apprenticeship system and help providers deliver high-quality apprenticeships that support Scotland’s economy.”
