Kent SMEs Offered Access To Levy‑Funded Apprenticeship Training
Kent-based small and medium-sized employers could now benefit from fully funded apprenticeship training, following a new levy transfer offer from Medway NHS Foundation Trust.
The Trust is making unused apprenticeship levy funding available to support eligible organisations across Kent to recruit, develop and retain skilled staff. Where criteria are met, the funding can cover up to 100% of apprenticeship training and End‑Point Assessment costs, removing one of the key barriers for smaller employers looking to invest in skills development.
The opportunity is particularly relevant to organisations operating in, or supporting, the health, care and wider community sector. This includes charities, care providers, GP practices, voluntary organisations and community interest companies, as well as other SMEs working closely with these sectors.
Apprenticeships can be used to support both new recruits and existing employees, across a wide range of roles. More than 800 apprenticeship standards are available nationally, spanning areas such as care, business administration, leadership, digital and data, coaching, fundraising and supervision. While training and assessment costs may be fully funded through levy transfer, salary costs are not included.
Large organisations, such as NHS Trusts, pay into the national apprenticeship levy. Where funds are not fully used, they can be transferred to smaller employers to ensure public investment continues to support local jobs, skills and workforce development. Medway NHS Foundation Trust has already reinvested levy funding into a number of Kent-based organisations, helping to strengthen local talent pipelines and career progression.
In addition to levy transfer funding, some small and medium-sized employers may also be eligible for additional government incentives, including payments for hiring eligible apprentices, subject to government criteria.
Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce is supporting awareness of this opportunity among relevant members and encouraging eligible organisations to explore whether levy-funded apprenticeships could benefit their workforce.
Employers interested in learning more or confirming their eligibility can download full details of the offer or request a conversation to discuss next steps.
