New Apprenticeship Reforms Expected to Reshape Hair and Beauty Workforce

The hair and beauty sector is set to experience significant changes following the government's latest apprenticeship reforms. In a move that could reshape the sector's workforce development, the Department for Education has announced the removal of English and maths functional skills exit requirements for adult apprentices, alongside a reduction in the minimum apprenticeship duration from 12 to eight months.

For years, the hair and beauty sector has faced challenges in recruiting and retaining talent, with functional skills requirements often acting as a stumbling block for many promising candidates. From February 11, 2025, businesses will be able to decide whether adult learners over 19 needs to complete level 2 English and maths qualifications to pass their apprenticeship.

"These reforms could mark a turning point for our sector," says Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the National Hair and Beauty Federation. "Many talented individuals who excel in practical skills but struggle with formal qualifications will now have the opportunity to pursue their passion in our sector. This could lead to a more diverse and skilled workforce, better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our clients."

 However, Larissey raises important concerns about the economic viability of apprenticeships for hair and beauty business owners: "While these reforms are welcome, we must address the significant challenge posed by increasing apprentice minimum wages alongside the need for more robust employer incentives. The NHBF will be pressing the government for answers on how they plan to support employers in maintaining sustainable apprenticeship programs, particularly in a sector where margins are already extremely tight."

Cathy Weston, Director of Quality and Standards at the NHBF, adds: "The removal of mandatory English and maths requirements for adult apprentices is particularly promising when we consider completion rates. This change could significantly improve success rates while maintaining the high standards our industry demands."

The reforms extend beyond entry requirements to include significant changes to End Point Assessments (EPAs). From April 2025, the assessment process will become more streamlined, with:

- More proportionate assessment methods that eliminate duplication

- Potential for on-programme assessment where appropriate

- Greater flexibility for training providers to deliver certain assessment elements

The reduction in minimum apprenticeship duration from 12 to eight months will take effect from August 2025 and offers new possibilities for rapid workforce development. This change is particularly beneficial for individuals with significant prior learning who might have previously been ineligible for apprenticeship training.

From August 2025, the sector will benefit from simplified payment systems, with the removal of data duplication requirements between the ILR and Apprenticeship Service submissions. This streamlining will address existing administrative challenges faced by training providers in the beauty sector.

Impact on Hair and Beauty Businesses

For salon, barbershop and clinic owners and managers, these reforms present several advantages:

  • Faster qualification process for experienced adult learners

  • Reduced training costs due to shorter apprenticeship duration

  • Greater flexibility in workforce planning

  • Improved ability to address skills shortages quickly

  • Enhanced opportunities to attract career changers

While the reforms aim to streamline the apprenticeship process, the industry remains committed to maintaining high standards. The Department for Education emphasises that apprentices will still be assessed on core skills relevant to their occupation, ensuring that the quality of service in the sector remains uncompromised.

The NHBF has been actively addressing these challenges through its Survive and Thrive initiative, which has presented comprehensive proposals to the government for supporting apprenticeships in the hair and beauty sector. These proposals include specific recommendations for financial support mechanisms and incentives designed to make apprenticeships more sustainable for hair and beauty business owners. The campaign emphasises the vital role of apprenticeships in securing the sector's future workforce while acknowledging the current economic pressures facing businesses.

Natalia Kulak