The reform package will create up to 20,000 more apprenticeships, particularly for younger people and small businesses, the government said.

The levy was introduced in 2017 and requires companies with a payroll of more than £3 million to pay 0.5% of their payroll costs into a fund for training. Many small businesses do not have to pay into the fund but can benefit where larger employers transfer a portion of their unused money.

The government will also increase the amount of funding employers can transfer to other businesses – this is currently 25% of any unused levy funding.

From April, employers will be able to share up to 50% of their unspent levy funds to other businesses. According to government statistics, large employers such as Asda and BT Group have already transferred more than £35 million since September 2021.

The government currently classifies a small- to medium-sized business as having up to 250 employees, but said it plans to raise the threshold to 500 employees, meaning around 1,000 more companies become SMEs.

Education secretary Gillian Keegan said: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for businesses to develop the skills they need, and these new measures will help more businesses and young people benefit from them.

“Our plan to deliver a high-growth, high-skilled economy is working, with more opportunities available to young people than ever before.”

Sunak said: “Growing up in my mum’s pharmacy, I know first-hand how important small businesses are. Not just for the economy, but as a driver for innovation and aspiration, and as the key to building a society where hard work is always recognised and rewarded. “Taken together, these measures will unlock a tidal wave of opportunity and make a real difference to businesses and entrepreneurs across the country.”

Dave Reece said, “What will the Prime Minister do as having Level 4 English and Maths as a requirement, which some Students struggle with?”

Dave added “We come into contact with so many fantastic young people who would fit in and thrive within Automotive, but often the bar is set too high for them, meaning they are excluded before they have a chance.”

Julie Eley added “We believe the reforms don’t go far enough, but it is a start and hopefully it will go a little way to help smaller businesses attract and retain young people.”

“We believe that Membership organisation across Automotive should be focusing on smaller businesses to help them reduce costs for insurance, equipment and PPE needed to keep young people safe. By getting better discount for their members, they should be able to pass savings on.”

School of Thought educate the educators as well as inspire young people to forge a career in all areas of Automotive.