Training providers are still making a loss on functional skills qualifications even after this month’s funding boost, according to a new report. The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) said historic underfunding of functional skills qualifications (FSQs) has led to larger class sizes, increased online delivery and higher entry requirements for apprenticeships however funding for functional skills in apprenticeships was increased significantly for new learners this month. A 54 per cent increase from £471 to £724 was announced by the government last year for eligible learners. The increased funding rate for apprentices now matches funding for non-apprentice functional skills through the adult education budget but even that increased funding rate falls below the average cost of delivery of the qualifications. Click here for more.
