APPRENTICESHIP UNITS: A QUICK OVERVIEW FOR EMPLOYERS

Apprenticeships are the go-to option for most employers seeking funded, industry-standard training programmes for new or existing staff. They tick all the boxes for developing a competent team as they allow employees to build job-specific skills and practice them over time, building confidence. Apprentices also develop professional behaviours relevant to the sector and accumulate specific knowledge and expertise. 

However, some industry sectors are critically short of very specific skills that are needed urgently, sooner than it would take to develop them through an apprenticeship. So, the Government has approved several “apprenticeship units” for employers to use for existing staff to develop these skills quickly.  

We have compiled a set of FAQs to answer basic questions about this new training offer for businesses, which only became available in April 2026.

What are apprenticeship units?

Apprenticeship units are short, flexible training programmes designed to help employers quickly upskill existing staff in specific skill areas. They are created using parts of existing apprenticeship standards rather than enrolling employees in a full apprenticeship.

Why have apprenticeship units been introduced?

The government introduced apprenticeship units to give employers more flexibility when training staff. Businesses operating in certain industries need specific technical skills training rather than a full apprenticeship programme that can take 12 months or longer. It is hoped that apprenticeship units will allow these employers to respond more quickly to skills shortages and changing industry demands. 

Who are apprenticeship units for?

They are aimed at employers who want to upskill existing employees in critical or emerging skills areas. They are particularly relevant for sectors experiencing rapid change, including engineering, construction, green energy, manufacturing, digital and AI. 

How long do apprenticeship units last?

Apprenticeship units are much shorter than traditional apprenticeships. Most programmes involve between 30 and 140 hours of training and can usually be completed within 1 to 16 weeks, a bit like a Skills Bootcamp.

How are apprenticeship units delivered?

Training is delivered by approved apprenticeship learning providers and may include any combination of workplace learning, online learning, practical training and technical workshops, as well as assessments. Like full apprenticeships, apprenticeship units will fit around work and minimise disruption to employers.

How are apprenticeship units funded?

Levy-paying employers can use their apprenticeship levy funds to pay for apprenticeship units. Non-levy employers will have apprenticeship units fully funded. 

Who can deliver apprenticeship units?

Initially, apprenticeship units can only be delivered by approved apprenticeship providers with strong Ofsted ratings. This has been introduced to help maintain quality standards. 

Where can employers search for what units are available?

Employers can search for available apprenticeship units on the Skills England portal, and soon, all the approved providers will be listed on the Find An Apprenticeship Training Provider search service. Remember to select the correct checkbox to get only apprenticeship units in your results.

What’s available?

Here is a quick look at some of the apprenticeship units that will become more widely available as more providers start delivering them:

• AI Leadership: AI strategy & opportunity

Designed for managers and business leaders who need to understand how to introduce, manage and develop AI strategies within organisations

• Battery manufacturing

Develops the technical skills and knowledge for the manufacture of batteries, including safety practices and quality standards.

• Electric vehicle charging point installation and maintenance

Supports employees working in the installation, maintenance and servicing of EV charging infrastructure as demand for electric vehicles continues to grow. 

• Electrical fitting and assembly

Provides skills in electrical fitting, assembly and manufacturing processes used in engineering and production environments. 

• Mechanical fitting and assembly

Focuses on mechanical assembly, fitting, and engineering operations in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. 

• Permanent modular building assembly

Supports skills development in modern construction methods and modular building assembly for offsite and sustainable construction projects. 

• Solar photovoltaic installation and maintenance

Designed for workers involved in the installation and maintenance of solar PV systems and renewable energy technology. 

• Welding (mechanised)

Develops technical welding skills for mechanised and industrial welding environments. Suitable for manufacturing and engineering businesses.

In the future, additional apprenticeship units may become available.

Whilst apprenticeship units have only recently become available, there are many tried-and-tested full-length apprenticeships that Liverpool City Region employers can use to recruit and develop staff. With the new financial incentives for recruiting apprentices on the horizon, it’s a great time to reach out to the LCR BeMore Skills Brokerage Service and find out how apprenticeships can work for you.