Update: issue 329 (5 October 2016)
Updated 26 October 2016
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2016
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sfa-update-october-2016/update-issue-329
1. Register of training organisations: new applications
Action
The register of training organisations opened for applications on Friday, 30 September and will close on Friday, 14 October.
This is for new applications for organisations that are required to enter the register as detailed in our 2016 to 2017 Funding Rules and those interested in future procurement opportunities, including adult education budget, but excluding apprenticeships.
No action is needed by organisations already on the register.
This is not the launch of the new register of apprenticeship training providers. We will publish details of this shortly.
For further information, go to the Register page of GOV.UK or email Register help.
2. Year-end indicative reconciliation statements 2015 to 2016
Action
Colleges and other training organisations funded through a grant for Adult Skills Budget (ASB) will be able to view their year-end indicative reconciliation statements on the Skills Funding Service (SFS) in the first week of October.
In order to view the statements you will need to have either the contract authoriser, contract manager or contract user role in SFS. For more information about these categories, visit FE Connect.
If you have any queries please contact your provider manager or email the service desk.
3. National Minimum Wage rate for under 25s increased
Information
On 1 October, the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, and workers under the age of 25, increased. All rates are listed on GOV.UK.
The apprentice rate applies to apprentices under the age of 19, or those over 19 and in the first year of their apprenticeship. After their first year, apprentices must be paid at least the minimum wage rate appropriate to their age (including the National Living Wage if they are aged 25 or over).
As it is unlawful to pay under the National Minimum Wage, employers should make sure their payrolls are up-to-date