AELP blasts exclusion of independent training providers from new Levelling Up teaching payment

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) has blasted the decision to exclude independent training providers (ITPs) from the government’s new Levelling Up Premium payments, labelling the decision as “grossly unfair and a kick in the teeth for those learning outside the college or school system”.

The Department for Education announced the Levelling up premium payments for FE teachers fund today (23 April) which will provide payments up to £6,000 for teaching in specific courses. Eligible further education teachers can apply for the first round of levelling up premium payments from autumn 2024 until spring 2025 – but crucially this will be limited to those teaching in statutory FE providers, 16-to-19-only academies, and free schools.

This is a big blow for those teaching or delivering training outside the college or school system – and more importantly for the learners that rely on them.

Ben Rowland, AELP Chief Executive, said:

“ITPs are at the heart of our communities supporting the development of young people in the areas that need it most – often working with those who statutory providers are unwilling to engage with. Introducing incentives for people working at some types of providers but not others will make recruitment for ITPs even harder, hitting their learners disproportionately.
“This is grossly unfair and there will be a lot of staff at ITPs upset at losing out; quite frankly, it’s a kick in the teeth for those working outside the college or school system.”

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) is a national membership body, proudly representing its many member organisations. AELP members support thousands of businesses and millions of learners in England by delivering a wide range of training, vocational learning, and employability programmes.

For further information or interviews please contact Matt Strong, Communications Manager, AELP, on 07920 161685 or [email protected]