A wide range of government programmes for UK employers are available to help you recruit, train, and upskill your workforce. Whether you’re hiring new staff, offering work experience, or developing existing employees, these schemes provide practical support—many with financial incentives.
Explore the options below to find the right fit for your business:
Apprenticeships
Paid employment for over-16s combining work and study.
Cost: Apprentice wage + 5% training contribution (depending on business size)
Benefits: Build a skilled, motivated workforce
Time: Minimum 12 months
T Levels: Industry Placements
Offer 45-day placements to students aged 16–19.
Cost: Free government scheme (some business costs may apply)
Benefits: Scout future talent and grow your team
Time: Short-term (45 days)
Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP)
Up to 6-week placements for benefit claimants aged 18+.
Cost: Free government scheme
Benefits: Recruit and train staff with pre-employment training
Time: Up to 6 weeks
Skills Bootcamps
Flexible training for ages 19+ in specialist skills.
Cost: Varies by business size; free if learner is not employed by you
Benefits: Fast-track new talent with guaranteed interviews
Time: Up to 16 weeks
Multiply
Free numeracy courses for employees aged 19+.
Cost: Free, locally led
Benefits: Improve productivity and confidence in numeracy
Time: Varies (drop-ins to multi-week courses)
Traineeships
Unpaid work placements for 16–24-year-olds.
Cost: Free government scheme
Benefits: Prepare future apprentices or employees
Time: 70–240 hours
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
Level 4–5 qualifications for ages 18+.
Cost: Varies by course/provider
Benefits: Upskill staff or recruit new talent
Time: 1–2 years (full-time or part-time)
Supported Internships
Unpaid placements for 16–24-year-olds with SEND.
Cost: Free government scheme
Benefits: Build inclusive recruitment practices
Time: 6–12 months
Care Leaver Covenant
Support care-experienced young people aged 16–25.
Cost: Free government scheme
Benefits: Enrich your workforce with life-ready talent
Time: Flexible
Employing Prisoners and Prison Leavers
Recruit motivated individuals aged 18+.
Cost: Free government scheme
Benefits: Fill skills gaps and support rehabilitation
Time: Flexible
Free Courses and Additional Training
Funded qualifications and career support for employees.
Cost: Free for eligible adults
Benefits: Boost productivity and retention
Time: Varies
Find out more and explore all government programmes for UK employers at: skillsforlife.campaign.gov.uk/courses
