Funded incentives are available for employers to recruit apprentices through South Devon College, whether you want to upskill existing staff or bring in new talent - now is the right time to invest in apprenticeships.
Find out moreFunding incentives available for employers to recruit apprentices through South Devon College
Whether you want to upskill existing staff or bring in new talent, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective solution. Current funding incentives make it an ideal time to invest in skills and workforce development.
Current incentives include:
- £1,000 for hiring an eligible (16–18 year old apprentice)
- £2,000 Foundation Apprenticeship Incentive (aged 16-21)
- £2,000 new SME Hiring Incentive (from October 2026)
- 0% employer National Insurance on apprentice wages (aged under 25)
Our dedicated Business Development, Talent & Skills team is here to help you get started, access funding and find the right apprentice for your business. We handle the claims process on your behalf wherever we can, so the funding reaches you with minimum admin.
Ready. Skilled. Funded. is our commitment to helping you access the right people, the right training and the right funding to grow your business.
Read more about the incentives and enquire below…

Why invest in Apprenticeships?

Develop future
talent pipelines

Address skills
shortages

Increase staff
retention and
productivity

Upskill existing
employees

Support business
growth

Access funded
training
Current Employer Incentives Include
| Incentive | Eligibility Criteria | How and When It’s Paid | |
| £1,000 Additional payment for hiring eligible apprentices | Aged 16-18 (or 19-24 with an EHCP or care leaver status) | Paid in two equal instalments: • Day 90 • One year after apprenticeship started (or Day 242 if apprenticeship is under 12 months) Paid in three equal instalment | |
| £2,000 Foundation Apprenticeship Incentive | Aged 16-21 (or 22-24 for apprentices with an EHCP, care leavers, or prisoners) | Paid in three equal instalments: • Day 90 • Day 242 (8 months) • When apprentice progresses onto their next apprenticeship | |
| £2000 SME Hiring Incentive | Aged 16-24 Starts from 1st October 2026 Employed for no more than 90 days prior to start date | Paid in two equal instalments: • Day 90 • Day 365 (or 242 if apprenticeship is under 12 months) | |
| 0% Employer National Insurance | Aged Under 25 Earning below the upper earnings limit, a straight forward saving on wages | It’s a government-backed incentive that reduces employment costs from day one, while supporting skills development in your business |

















