Eligible employers could receive a £2,000 payment when recruiting a new apprentice aged 16–24 from 1 October 2026.

New government funding is being introduced to help smaller employers recruit apprentices and develop the skills their businesses need.

From 1 October 2026, employers that do not pay the apprenticeship levy may be eligible for a £2,000 hiring payment when recruiting a new apprentice aged 16–24.

The apprentice must start their apprenticeship on or after 1 October and have joined the employer within the previous three months. The payment is made through the training provider in two instalments, subject to the apprentice remaining eligible and in learning at the relevant payment points.

For non-levy-paying employers, the government will also fund 100% of eligible training and assessment costs for apprentices aged 16–24, up to the maximum funding band for the chosen apprenticeship.

An additional £1,000 may be available when employing an apprentice who is aged 16–18, or aged 19–24 with an education, health and care plan or experience of local authority care

Building the audiovisual workforce

Apprenticeships give employers an opportunity to develop people with the technical knowledge and practical experience their businesses require. They can help organisations create a sustainable skills pipeline while giving someone the opportunity to begin a rewarding career.

Middlesbrough College is one of the  approved providers currently offering the Level 5 Audiovisual Technician Apprenticeship. Delivered through distance learning, its programme combines online tuition with practical workplace experience. The College also provides a free recruitment service, including help identifying apprenticeship requirements, advertising vacancies and shortlisting applicants.

Employers can find out more about the College’s Level 5 Audiovisual Technician Apprenticeship or compare all approved providers.

ISCVE has also brought together information to help businesses understand the Audiovisual Technician Apprenticeship and the steps involved in employing an apprentice. Visit the ISCVE information page for employers to find out more.

The funding arrangements described above apply to eligible apprentices whose main workplace is in England. Eligibility criteria apply, and different arrangements operate in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Find out more here:

GOV.UK apprenticeship funding page