The Institute of Recruitment and the IOR Industry Skills Alliance are pleased to share an important opportunity for members to directly influence the future of apprenticeships, workforce development, and skills policy across the UK.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships has launched a national Call for Evidence exploring the role apprenticeships can play in supporting economic growth through the Government's Industrial Strategy. The inquiry will gather views from employers, training providers, colleges, sector bodies, recruiters, and industry leaders before making recommendations to Government on future skills policy, funding, and delivery.

 As a valued member of the IOR and Skills Alliance community, we strongly encourage you to contribute your experience, insight, and recommendations.

Why This Matters

The Government has identified eight priority growth sectors that will be central to the UK's future economic success. With significant reforms underway, including the introduction of the Growth and Skills Levy, the development of Skills England, and changes to apprenticeship delivery and funding, this inquiry presents a genuine opportunity for employers and skills professionals to shape future policy.

Members may wish to share views on:

• Barriers preventing employers from engaging with apprenticeships.
• How apprenticeship funding could be simplified.
• Ways to increase SME participation.
• The effectiveness of current apprenticeship standards.
• Improving careers advice and awareness among young people.
• Strengthening links between education providers and employers.
• Supporting priority sectors facing skills shortages.
• Creating more flexible pathways for upskilling and reskilling existing staff.
• Ensuring skills investment aligns with regional and national economic priorities.

These insights are invaluable in helping policymakers understand the realities faced by employers and training organisations across the country.

 Submission Deadline

The deadline for submissions is 1 August 2026. The findings will be used to develop recommendations for Government on the future design, delivery, and funding of apprenticeships and skills policy.

 Take Part

 We encourage all IOR and Skills Alliance members to take this opportunity to influence the future direction of apprenticeships and workforce development in the UK.

 Submit your evidence here: Call for Evidence | All-Party Parliamentary Group on Apprenticeships