The landscape of skills development and apprenticeships in the UK is undergoing significant change. The transition from the Apprenticeship Levy to the Skills and Growth funding Levy has sparked conversations across industries about the potential impact on training, workforce development, and employer investments in skills. To gain insights into these shifts, industry professionals gathered to share their perspectives on what lies ahead, the challenges to be addressed, and the opportunities for organizations to integrate these changes effectively.

Broadsword continues to foster talent through apprenticeships, allowing team members to develop while gaining both experience and training. As of National Apprenticeships Week, over 20% of the team at Broadsword are enrolled on or have completed apprenticeships, with apprentices both joining the business, progressing onto higher level courses, and existing members of staff completing apprenticeship courses on subjects including marketing, cyber security, operations, and management. 

The government’s recognition of the creative industries as a growth driver is inspiring, highlighting their role in boosting the economy through collaboration. Flexible apprenticeships from August 2025 aim to address skills shortages, while reintroducing creative education in schools seeks to reverse declining arts participation and ensure a vibrant, skilled future workforce.

Working together to navigate this evolving landscape and create meaningful pathways for learners and workers.

In ongoing discussion with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), industry leaders emphasised the critical need for the events sector to be recognized as a government's priority sectors’ along with tourism and hospitality.