Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify every year, as the government cuts red tape to boost economic growth by giving employers more flexibility over maths and English requirements.

Rules slowing down the training of workers in key industries like construction will also be changed, as the government reveals plans to turbocharge growth industries with reduced bureaucracy for apprenticeships.

Leading employers have been calling for these changes. Businesses will now be able to decide whether adult learners over the age of 19 when they start their apprenticeship course will need to complete a Level 2 English and maths qualification (equivalent to GCSE) in order to pass it.

This means more learners can qualify in high demand sectors such as healthcare, social care and construction, helping to drive growth and meet government targets in key areas such as housebuilding.

This could mean as many as 10,000 more apprentices per year will be able to complete their apprenticeship, unlocking opportunity in communities all over the country and breaking the link between background and success.

It doesn't mean apprentices won't be assessed on core English and maths skills relevant to their occupation, but it does mean they will be able to focus more on their paid work.

The minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced to eight months, down from the current minimum of 12 months.

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."

Craig Beaumont, executive director of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: "It's encouraging to see government shorten the length of apprenticeships, and give employers the right to decide whether Level 2 English and maths is needed. These flexibilities should help SME employers fill skills gaps faster."

Three trailblazer apprenticeships in key shortage occupations will look to pioneer the new shorter apprenticeship approach, with apprentices in green energy, healthcare and film/ TV production set to be able to take on these new courses.

Changes to the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be introduced from August 2025, subject to the legislative timetable, with changes to English and maths requirements coming into effect immediately.

This will be beneficial to employers in sectors like construction which have an urgent need for qualified workers, helping to meet the government's mission to build 1.5 million homes by the end of this parliament.

Sharon Blyfield, head of early careers at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners GB, said: "We believe that the inclusion of functional skills as an exit for apprenticeships has often hindered many people from reaching their full potential. The announced changes will help make apprenticeships a more viable option to more people, not only new recruits but also for our current employees who missed out on these skills during their school years. These changes will enable them to successfully complete their apprenticeships without added barriers, which is brilliant news."

Lisa Pinfield, group director of performance and development, Capita, said: "Making functional skills requirements more flexible for apprenticeships will open doors for more adult learners, especially those from diverse backgrounds. By removing unnecessary barriers, employers can welcome a wider pool of talented apprentices who bring valuable skills and experience. This change will help businesses grow, support social mobility and give more people the chance to succeed through apprenticeships."

Matthew Percival, future of work and skills director, CBI, said: "Apprenticeships have an important role to play in building the skills for growth. Greater flexibility on minimum length and on English and maths requirements will help businesses to offer more workers the opportunity to add to their skills."