STF has published its manifesto for the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. The manifesto focusses on key issues relating to Scottish Apprenticeships and Employability Support.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeship targets: The target for Modern Apprenticeships should be reset to at least 30,000 new fully-funded, all-age places each year by 2028. Targets for Foundation and Graduate Apprenticeships should be reviewed in the next 12 months to ensure they continue to meet stakeholder needs.
Mixed economy of delivery: Scottish Government must ensure that the current mixed delivery model of provision which values the role of training providers, employers and colleges is retained. Funding should be routed to the best performing organisations.
Foundation Apprenticeships: The current programme is working well and should be retained. Work by stakeholders to refine and improve the programme should be prioritised.
Employability Support
Commissioning: Steps must be taken to ensure there is a fair, transparent and evidence-based commissioning process which meets the needs of – and reflects the different trading conditions of – the public, private and third sectors.
Central hub: A national database or hub which provides information on current and future commissioning opportunities should be set up to improve engagement, transparency and fairness.
STF Manifesto – April 2026 (PDF)
