Post-16 Education Skills 2025-07-21
2025-07-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question concerns the distribution of funds collected through the apprenticeship levy in Northern Ireland, where Robin Swann is concerned about the effectiveness of the current system.
Robin Swann noted that the apprenticeship levy is collected equally across the UK but returned to Northern Ireland under the Barnett formula. He asked whether there could be an option for employers who contribute to the levy to draw funds back directly to support apprentices employed in their companies.
Janet Daby thanked Swann for his question and acknowledged that skills are devolved matters with funding responsibilities lying with the Northern Ireland government. She stated they will continue to engage with the devolved administrations as they develop a levy-funded growth and skills offer for England.
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Assessment & feedback
Directly avoided answering whether the system can be changed to allow local employers to draw funds back directly from the apprenticeship levy.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Fleet raised concerns about Brigg infant school, where young pupils are being taught in prefabricated buildings not fit for purpose. She emphasized that these children deserve better and called on the Minister to address this issue.
Natalie Fleet mentioned a visit to Brigg infant school in South Normanton, describing it as an excellent school but highlighted that four and five-year-olds are being taught in unfit prefabs. She asked if the Minister agrees they need a proper classroom and would look into this case.
Janet Daby thanked Fleet for her thoughtful question about prefabs. She confirmed they have a plan to build and would take up this matter with the appropriate Minister.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to specific action or timeline regarding Brigg infant school's classroom issue, instead promising to engage with relevant officials.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
O'Brien questioned the inconsistency in statements regarding employers’ ability to use apprenticeship levy funds for non-apprenticeship purposes as promised during the election. He was seeking clarity on whether this promise would be fulfilled.
Neil O’Brien pointed out that before the election, Labour had proposed allowing businesses to take 50% of their apprenticeship levy money and spend it elsewhere, but different Ministers have given conflicting statements post-election about whether this is still a commitment. He asked if businesses can now take out 50% as promised.
Janet Daby thanked O’Brien for his question and stated that the Government continues to invest in education with flexibility available, including foundation apprenticeships and shorter apprenticeships. She did not provide a direct yes or no answer but affirmed investment in young people.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not give a clear affirmative or negative response regarding businesses’ ability to withdraw 75% of their levy money for other purposes, instead focusing on overall investment in education.
Flexibility
Investment
Response accuracy