Positive Upcoming Changes to the Skills and Growth Levy
The UK hospitality sector is evolving and so are the ways we train and grow talent. As staffing challenges continue and retention remains a top priority, the government’s latest Skills and Growth Levy reforms couldn’t come at a better time.
These changes promise to make apprenticeships faster, more flexible, and more accessible, especially for employers in the fast-moving world of hospitality.
At Umbrella Training, we’re already adapting our approach to help businesses make the most of these opportunities, offering bespoke, high-impact training that works in the real world.
Here’s what’s changing and why it matters to you 👇
1. Shorter Apprenticeships for Hospitality Roles in 2025
Training that fits your team’s needs, without compromising on quality.
What’s happening:
Streamlined apprenticeship standards
Reduced minimum duration for specific roles
Why it matters for hospitality:
Faster onboarding for roles like commis chefs, baristas, kitchen porters, and FOH
Reduced costs, quicker time to productivity
Flexible options for seasonal and part-time staff
Easier to attract candidates through fast-track pathways
Here at Umbrella, we are already working with employers and industry bodies to co-design and pilot these shorter training models ensuring they deliver practical impact and long-term value.
2. Removal of Mandatory Functional Skills
Opening doors for more talent without lowering standards.
What’s happening:
English & maths (Functional Skills) are no longer required for apprenticeships in many hospitality roles
Why it matters:
Breaks down barriers for candidates who struggled in traditional education
Reduces dropout risk
Speeds up completion and streamlines delivery
Focus stays on job-specific skills and behaviours
We embed functional literacy and numeracy into real-world training, helping apprentices build confidence through hands-on learning, not unnecessary exams.
3. Greater Flexibility in Using Your Apprenticeship Levy
Use it your way, for your people.
What’s happening:
Levy funds can now be used for modular, bite-sized training
Greater opportunity to transfer levy funds to smaller partners or across sectors
Why it matters:
Large businesses can support their supply chain
SMEs gain more access to fully funded training
Easier to align spend with business needs and staffing realities
We support employers in navigating the new rules and designing custom learning interventions that support productivity, retention, and talent growth, with no wasted levy spend.
What Should Employers Do Next? How to Prepare for Levy Reform?
1. Audit your roles
Where can shorter, more flexible training make an impact?
2. Speak to your training provider
Let’s build something tailored to your operational needs.
3. Refresh your recruitment
Promote apprenticeships as accessible, fast-tracked career paths.
4. Maximise your levy
Plan modular, high-impact training to match workforce demands and talent goals.
These changes mark a significant shift towards a more agile and employer-responsive skills system. For hospitality businesses, they represent a timely opportunity to reshape workforce development strategies, overcome staffing challenges, and attract new talent with accessible, job-ready training. Whether you're a global brand or a local independent, the new Skills and Growth Levy reforms can empower you to grow a skilled, motivated workforce more efficiently than ever before. Umbrella Training stands ready to support hospitality employers throughout this transition, offering insight, innovation, and a deep commitment to workforce excellence.
For further advice and guidance, you can speak to us at Umbrella Training for support in adapting to these changes and exploring new opportunities.
