Consultation Response
Medr: Apprenticeship funding model: consultation
Deadline for Response: 19 June 2026
ColegauCymru broadly welcomes the direction of travel towards a more flexible and responsive apprenticeship funding model; however, we have significant concerns regarding its potential complexity, risk, and deliverability. The response highlights that increased administrative requirements, system changes and enhanced data validation processes could divert resources away from frontline delivery and introduce financial volatility for providers. A central concern is the proposed increase in outcome-based funding from 3% to 20%, which is considered disproportionate and potentially destabilising for our members. While a stronger focus on attainment is supported in principle, excessive reliance on outcomes may discourage the recruitment of learners requiring additional support and does not fully reflect the realities of apprenticeship completion.
The response calls for greater transparency in how funding values, sector weightings and “Medr Units” are determined, alongside robust testing, clear transition arrangements, and continued co-design with providers. It also emphasises the need to recognise additional delivery costs, including rural provision, Welsh-language and bilingual delivery, additional learning needs (ALN) support, qualification resits and data systems transition. Overall, the response stresses that reform should be phased and evidence-based to avoid destabilising an already strong apprenticeship programme, while maintaining a clear focus on inclusion, Welsh language provision, and long-term sector sustainability.
ColegauCymru is committed to working together with all stakeholders to create an apprenticeships programme that works for everyone.
Further Information
Medr/2026/17: Apprenticeship funding model: consultation
Jeff Protheroe, Strategic Adviser - WBL and Employability
Jeff.Protheroe@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
