Our new apprenticeship fund for small business

Find out how to apply

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with online study and support, providing both practical experience and theoretical knowledge. This ensures that apprentices gain the necessary skills and understanding to excel in their chosen fields. Programmes are available from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) through to Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s degree), supporting development at every stage of a career.

Royal Mail Levy Transfer Fund

Royal Mail now offers levy transfer funding to eligible businesses. This is available to registered companies that sell online with up to 250 employees. Funding can be used for any government-approved apprenticeship. For queries, please contact levytransfers@royalmail.com.

 

How to Apply

To apply for a levy transfer, you’ll need an apprenticeship service account. If you don’t have one, visit the government website for guidance on setting it up.

  1. If you are already part of Royal Mail’s supply chain, contact levytransfers@royalmail.com with your apprenticeship service account ID to request a direct transfer.
  2. If you are not part of our supply chain, visit the pledge page and search for 'Royal Mail' to apply.

 
Before applying, please ensure you know:

  • The apprenticeship standard your apprentice/s will undertake
  • The number of apprentices you need funding for
  • The location of the apprentices’ workplace
  • The expected start date

Once submitted, you can track your application status in your apprenticeship service account. Royal Mail will review and respond to your application within two weeks.

Useful Resources

- Apprenticeships

- Employing an apprentice: Overview - GOV.UK

- Understanding apprenticeship benefits and funding

- Receive a levy transfer from another business to fund an apprenticeship - GOV.UK

âśťPlease note: Apprenticeship programmes and funding rules differ in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Learn about apprenticeships in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Understanding Levy Transfers

A levy transfer allows organisations to receive funding to cover the cost of apprenticeship training and assessment. This can help address skills shortages in specific sectors or locations.

Employers with an annual wage bill of ÂŁ3million or more pay into the apprenticeship levy. These employers can choose to transfer up to 50% of their levy funds to other organisations.

Transferred funds cover 100% of the training and assessment costs (up to the funding band maximum) and are paid monthly for the duration of the apprenticeship.