As we delve into 2025, schools across the UK are facing a significant change: the rise in National Insurance (NI) contributions. Starting in April 2025, employer contributions will increase from 13.8% to 15%, and the threshold at which schools begin paying NI will drop from £9,100 to £5,000. For many schools, this will put additional strain on already tight budgets and increase staffing costs.

However, there is a solution that can help schools not only manage these increased costs but also invest in the development of a skilled and future-ready workforce. Apprenticeships, particularly for roles like Teaching Assistants (TAs), provide a cost-effective way for schools to reduce payroll expenses. By recruiting apprentices, schools can benefit from an NI exemption for young apprentices under 25, helping to offset some of the impact of the contribution hike.

Organisations like Swift Apprenticeships can guide schools through the process of hiring apprentices and making the most of available funding, easing financial pressures and building a stronger, more capable team to support the needs of students.

 

Why Apprenticeships Are the Smart Choice

Apprenticeships offer schools a smart solution for reducing costs while building a skilled workforce. One of the most attractive benefits is the potential to reduce payroll expenses through National Insurance exemptions. Currently, employers are exempt from paying NI contributions for apprentices under 25 who earn less than £967 per week. This can significantly reduce payroll costs and provide schools with the flexibility they need to manage their budgets effectively.

Apprenticeships also allow schools to invest in new talent, developing young professionals who understand their school culture and values. This investment in future talent is essential for long-term sustainability and addressing the shortage of skilled support staff.

Moreover, schools can maximise available funding to reduce their financial burden. Through the Apprenticeship Levy, schools that meet certain thresholds can access funding to cover the full cost of apprenticeship training. For schools that don’t contribute to the Levy, co-investment funding covers 95% of apprenticeship training costs, making apprenticeships an affordable way to upskill staff and expand teams.

In short, apprenticeships offer schools a cost-effective way to reduce expenses, develop new talent, and maximise available financial support.

 

Financial Incentives for Hiring Apprentices

In addition to National Insurance exemptions and funding opportunities, schools can also benefit from a £1,000 government grant when hiring apprentices aged 16 to 18. This incentive further reduces the cost of apprenticeship training and helps schools build a diverse, skilled workforce.

Swift Apprenticeships can guide schools in securing this £1,000 government grant and ensure that they are making the most of the available funding. They can also help schools navigate the Apprenticeship Levy and co-investment funding, streamlining the process of recruiting and training apprentices while maximising financial support.

Taking advantage of these financial incentives makes apprenticeships an even more affordable solution for schools looking to invest in staff development without breaking the bank.

 

The Level 3 Teaching Assistant Programme

The Level 3 Teaching Assistant programme is a comprehensive 13-month apprenticeship designed to provide staff with the skills needed to support teachers and students effectively. The programme uses a blended learning approach, offering online learning and in-person assessments, which ensures staff can balance their professional responsibilities with their development.

A key feature of the programme is its focus on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The SEND pathway provides specialised training to help Teaching Assistants better support students with diverse learning needs, allowing them to create inclusive environments where all pupils can thrive.

 

Key Benefits:

• Fully Funded Apprenticeship Training: Funded through the Apprenticeship Levy or co-investment funding, making it an affordable solution for schools.
• Flexible Training Delivery: A blended learning model that allows staff to learn at their own pace while receiving support.
• Specialised SEND Skills Training: Focuses on equipping TAs with the skills needed to support students with SEND, ensuring that every child gets the personalised attention they deserve.
• Career Progression and Professional Growth: The Level 3 qualification opens doors for career advancement, enabling TAs to take on more responsibilities and contribute more effectively to the school’s educational goals.

 

This apprenticeship provides schools with a chance to upskill their staff, enhance student outcomes, and foster a more inclusive learning environment. It also creates professional development opportunities for TAs, ensuring long-term success and growth.

 

How Swift Supports Schools

Swift Apprenticeships offers comprehensive support throughout the apprenticeship journey, ensuring schools can easily access funding, recruit and upskill apprentices, and deliver effective training programmes.

 

Expertise in Managing Apprenticeship Funding (Levy & Co-Investment)

Navigating apprenticeship funding can be challenging, but Swift’s team is well-versed in both the Apprenticeship Levy and co-investment funding processes. Swift can guide schools through each step, ensuring they fully utilise the available resources and maximise funding opportunities.

 

Assistance in Recruiting and Upskilling Apprentices

Swift also helps schools recruit apprentices who fit their needs, streamlining the hiring process. Once apprentices are on board, Swift provides structured training and support to ensure they develop the skills necessary to succeed in their roles.

 

Flexible Training Options to Minimise Disruption

Swift’s blended learning model, combining online lectures with in-person assessments, ensures that apprentices can continue working while developing their skills. This flexibility helps schools avoid operational disruptions while investing in staff development.

 

Support for SEND Pathways and Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Swift’s apprenticeship programmes focus on specialised SEND training, equipping TAs with the skills to support students with diverse needs. This helps schools create inclusive classrooms where all students, regardless of their challenges, have the opportunity to succeed.

 

In summary, Swift offers expert guidance and support throughout the apprenticeship process, ensuring schools maximise funding, recruit talented apprentices, and deliver flexible, specialised training programmes that benefit both staff and students.

 

Call to Action

As schools prepare for the changes in National Insurance contributions set to take effect in April 2025, now is the perfect time to explore how apprenticeships can help offset rising payroll costs while investing in the future of your staff.

 

Book a Consultation

Book a free consultation with Swift Apprenticeships to learn how to set up apprenticeships, navigate funding options, and select the best programmes for your school.

 

Download Free Guide

Download Swift’s free guide on apprenticeship funding to understand how the Apprenticeship Levy and co-investment funding can benefit your school. This comprehensive resource provides all the information you need to make informed decisions.

 

Act Now to Maximise Funding

Don’t wait for the National Insurance changes to take effect. By acting early, you can maximise available funding, recruit new talent, and upskill your current staff, ensuring your school is ready for the future.