State of the nation 2026
We are pleased to launch our 2026 State of the nation report for professional and business services in England – a sector that generates nearly 12% of the UK’s gross value added, and represents a core area of provision for many colleges and training providers.
The report explores the major shifts experienced by the sector over the past year, summarising key changes that will impact how colleges and training providers plan future provision.
Our key findings:
- With up to 5 million people already employed in PBS roles, Skills England estimates that an additional 535,000 roles will be created by 2035
- Government policy has changed entry routes and funding, such as the introduction of the new Level 2 Administration Assistant apprenticeship for learners under 25, and new financial incentives for hiring younger people
- The apprenticeship market for PBS is significant: there were over 120,000 starts across PBS standards in 2024-25, representing 34% of all apprenticeship starts
- Adult learning and upskilling continues to be an essential part of the skills sector, with around 1.3 million certifications awarded across key PBS bodies, including AAT, CMI, CIPD and City & Guilds between January 2023 and March 2026
The report also examines the changing provider landscape, local devolution of adult skills budgets, and how awarding organisations and professional bodies are shaping qualifications around workplace needs.
What does this mean for colleges and training providers?
The report identifies clear opportunities for providers, including:
- New entry-level routes for young people: developing provision for young people that aligns with targeted youth funding goals
- Clear progression pathways: building clear progression pathways for level 2 learners onto higher courses, advanced apprenticeships or roles within accounting, business, management, HR and law
- Meeting the demand for flexible delivery: offering blended learning delivery that allows both young people and adults to study around work and other commitments
We would like to thank AAT and CIPD for their contributions to this year’s report.
The Mindful Education Partnerships Team supports both new and existing partners in the planning and implementation of their curriculum strategy for professional courses and apprenticeships.