Access Training (East Midlands)

Big news for employers: Apprenticeship funding just got even better.

The Government has announced a major new package of apprenticeship incentives for 2026 — and it could make hiring and training talent more cost-effective than ever.

From fully funded training for under-25s (for many SMEs) to cash incentives worth thousands per apprentice, this is one of the biggest changes to apprenticeship funding in years.

What this means for employers:

• 100% funded training costs for eligible young apprentices
• New £2,000 hiring incentive for SMEs (from Oct 2026)
• Existing £1,000 payments for younger apprentices still available
• Potential to combine incentives and maximise funding

Whether you're already recruiting apprentices or just starting to explore it, now is the time to understand what's available — and how to make it work for your business.

We’ve broken everything down in our latest article: https://www.atem.co.uk/new-apprenticeship-incentives-announced-for-2026.html

If you’d like help navigating the changes or planning your next intake, our team is here to support you.

Get in touch with our friendly and experienced Engagement team:
Tel: 0330 002 6266
Email: [email protected]

The latest Milburn Review highlights a growing challenge we cannot ignore: youth unemployment is rising, with nearly 1 in 7 young people not in education, employment or training.

At Access Training, this is something we see firsthand every day. That’s why we remain committed to creating real pathways into work through apprenticeships and targeted support programmes.

We know apprenticeships work – giving employers the opportunity to shape skills, while helping young people build meaningful, long-term careers.

But more support is needed.

Stronger employer incentives, clearer routes into training, and better support networks will be key to unlocking opportunities and tackling barriers young people face.

We welcome the direction of the review and look forward to seeing how it drives long-term, positive change for young people, employers, and the wider economy.

Read our full response here: https://www.atem.co.uk/milburn-review.html

Happy Father’s Day from everyone here at Access Training.

Today, we’re celebrating all the dads, stepdads, grandads and father figures who support, inspire and make a difference every day.

Thank you for everything you do to guide and encourage the next generation.

Looking for a fresh start?

Access Training has fully funded courses this June to help you take the next step into work.

Access Works supports learners aged 19+ with confidence building, employability skills, and CSCS card courses for those interested in construction careers.

We also offer functional skills in English and maths to help boost your job prospects.

All programmes are fully funded for eligible learners, helping you gain qualifications, build skills, and move into work with confidence.

Book now to secure your place:
https://www.atem.co.uk/access-works-courses.html

Dreaming of a career in childcare?

Start your journey with our Level 1 Certificate in Caring for Children – designed to help you build confidence, skills and a strong foundation for your future.

• Fully funded
• 16-18 year olds
• Full-time course
• September start
• Located in Nottingham

Enrol for September now!

Explore online or get in touch with our friendly and experienced Engagement team who is here to help you every step of the way.

Tel: 0330 002 6266
Email: [email protected]
https://www.atem.co.uk/full-time-courses.html

We’re proud to support the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month.

At Access Training, we believe in celebrating individuality, promoting equality, and creating a place where everyone feels valued and supported.

We’re committed to building an inclusive learning environment where people can grow, develop their skills, and reach their full potential.

Find out more about our values: https://www.atem.co.uk/our-purpose-and-values.html

“Access Training take the time to understand our organisational needs and help us recruit apprentices who will succeed, stay with us and become valuable colleagues.”

We’re delighted to share this feedback from Michelle Place, Apprenticeships and Widening Participation Lead at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Our partnership with NUH began in 2009 and has grown from strength to strength, built on collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to developing talented apprentices.

We’re incredibly proud to continue working with NUH to create opportunities, support learners, and build skilled, confident professionals for the future.

Read more: https://www.atem.co.uk/17-years-of-partnership-with-nottingham-university-hospitals-nhs-trust.html

Ready to strengthen your workforce like NUH?

Get in touch with our friendly and experienced Engagement team:

Tel: 0330 002 6266
Email: [email protected]

Was school not for you? Feeling unsure about your results?

If you’re aged 16–18, we could have the perfect next step for you.

Start your next journey with our full-time study programmes, designed to provide recognised qualifications with hands-on work experience.

• Fully funded
• A variety of full-time courses
• September start available
• Located in Nottingham

At Access Training, we provide a high level of guidance and support, helping you reach your full potential every step of the way.

Enrol for September now!

Explore online or get in touch with our friendly and experienced Engagement team who is here to help you every step of the way.

Tel: 0330 002 6266
Email: [email protected]
https://www.atem.co.uk/full-time-courses.html

Looking to start your career in Early Years?

Access Training is currently recruiting for apprenticeship opportunities in Early Years — a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience while you learn.

If you’re passionate about working with children and want to take your first step into a rewarding career, this could be the perfect opportunity.

Check out our latest apprenticeship vacancies: https://www.atem.co.uk/apprenticeships-vacancies.html

Looking for an alternative to college or sixth form?

Access Training offers full-time vocational courses for 16–18-year-olds, combining recognised qualifications with hands-on work experience.

Our programmes support your chosen career path and include options to gain English and maths qualifications if needed.

We offer a variety of full-time study programmes:

- Caring for Children
- Early Years Practitioner
- Health & Social Care
- Customer Service
- Construction
- Animal Care

The course starts in September, so please get in touch with our friendly and experienced Engagement team:

Tel: 0330 002 6266
Email: [email protected]
https://www.atem.co.uk/full-time-courses.html