workshops


Welcome to the Funding Zone

With funding systems under pressure and reforms reshaping the landscape, this zone gives providers fresh perspectives to navigate change with confidence.

Gain practical insights on funding, compliance and regulation to secure sustainability, protect quality and strengthen learner outcomes.

Bookings for workshop sessions will open 7 days prior to the conference.


Funding Zone Sponsor
Bud

Gateway Qualifications

Gateway Qualifications can help you build a funded curriculum offer that meets the needs of your learners, apprentices and employers using our wide range of End-point Assessments and qualifications supporting national, regional and local skills needs. Visit our stand to sign FutureDotNow’s Workforce Digital Skills Charter to demonstrate your commitment to closing the essential digital skills gap in the UK workforce. Talk to the leading Awarding Organisation for digital literacy about our Digital Literacy pathways, Digital Functional Skills qualifications, and Essential Digital Skills qualifications. Discover more about our End-point Assessments, including new standards available for 2025/26, SWAP packages, complimentary resources and our extensive range of vocational, employability and personal development qualifications, ESOL, Access to HE and more…

FUNDING ZONE WORKSHOPS
23 JUNE
11:40

12:40
Day 1
DfE / Apprenticeship Service – Improving access to funding and support for employer
This workshop, led by the DfE and Apprenticeship Service team, will walk you through the latest improvements to the Apprenticeship Service, focusing on simplifying access to funding and support for employers. Learn about the new ILR-led "add an apprentice" journey, changes designed to streamline provider payments, and what’s coming next.
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23 June
12:45

13:45
Day 1
How ITPs can help solve the NEET crisis
With nearly 1 million young people now NEET, this workshop explores how Independent Training Providers can play a vital role in reversing the trend. Hear from experts, including Youth Employment UK, GMCA, and SCL, as they share insights, strategies, and proven approaches to engage and support NEET learners.
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24 JUNE
10:05

11:05
Day 2
Apprenticeship Reform – What comes next?
This panel session offers a chance to dive deeper into the latest wave of apprenticeship reforms following the Minister for Skills’ keynote and ahead of Kate Ridley-Pepper’s address. From Foundation Apprenticeships to changes at Level 7 and assessment reform, panellists will unpack key developments and invite discussion on what’s next for the sector.
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24 JUNE
12:20

13:20
Day 2
25/26 Apprenticeship Funding Rules Explained
This workshop, by the DfE, offers an overview of the changes to the 2025/26 Apprenticeship Funding Rules. Learn what’s new, what’s changing, and how these updates will affect delivery and compliance.
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24 JUNE
15:45

16:45
Day 2
What to expect from a DfE Funding Assurance Review
This practical workshop demystifies the DfE Funding Assurance Review process, offering clarity on what to expect, how to prepare, and how to avoid common compliance pitfalls. With insights on both mainstream funding and support schemes like Bursary and Free Meals, it’s your opportunity to ask the experts.
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