The government has unveiled plans to create 10,000 more apprenticeships taking eight months, down from the usual 12.
Employers will be able to decide whether apprentices over 19 must complete level 2 (GCSE equivalent) English and Maths qualifications to pass the course.
The government promoted the use of these apprenticeships in training workers for industries like construction.
Bridget Phillipson, secretary of state for education, said: “Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system and these reforms show that we are listening.
“Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality, helping achieve our number one mission to grow the economy.
“Skills England will be a major driver in addressing the skills gaps needed to support employers up and down the country and I look forward to working with the new leadership.”
However, some are cynical about the scheme doing much to harbour economic growth.
David Crosthwaite, chief economist of the Building Cost Information Service, which provides construction data, said: “On the surface, easing restrictions on apprenticeships and creating greater flexibility for businesses is a welcome step.
“However, we need to ask serious questions about how much of an impact this will have in the short-term. The headline figure of 10,000 more apprentices sounds impressive but in reality is not even enough to address the significant loss of skilled labour seen over the past five years.
“Further, while reducing the minimum apprenticeship duration from 12 months to eight months might improve completion rates, it raises concerns about training quality. If it previously took a year to equip apprentices with the necessary skills, can this be effectively achieved in just eight months without compromising standards?
“If the government is serious about tackling the construction skills shortage, it needs to commit to a broader strategy, which cannot ignore the historic importance of overseas workers. Of course, the industry has to play its part in this too by making construction an attractive career with more direct employment in place of self-employment.”
