How do I apply for Skills Bank?

Apply online

If you know the training and Training Provider you want to use, you can apply online. 

Email for more information

If you would like advice on the best course for you or aren’t sure whether Skills Bank is right for your business, you can email our Skills Advisors dependant on your location:

The Application Process

Step 1
Application Submission

Business submits application with support of Skills Advisors 

Step 2
Stage 1 Eligibility Checks

Stage 1 eligibility checks performed by Skills Bank team

Step 3
Application Review

Application is reviewed by 3 individuals

Step 4
Appraisal Panel

Application is submitted to panel for decision

Step 5
Decision

Business is notified of decision

Step 6
Successful Application

Successful applications will receive documentation

(Agreement, Skills Deal, Bank Details Request Form)

Step 7
Contact Provider

Business communicates with Provider(s)

Step 8
Registration Forms

Business is issued registration documentation for completion (Business and Learner)

Step 9
Training Commences

Learners start training outlined in Skills Deal

Step 10
Mid-Point Review

Mid-Point Review conducted 3 months into training commencement

Step 11
Training Completes

Training concludes and business informs Skills Bank of completion

Step 12
Completion and Feedback

Completion/Feedback form issued to be submitted by business with relevant evidence of achievement and invoice/payment records.

Step 13
Payment of Skills Deal

90% payment authorised and released according to the payment terms

Step 14
Learner Outcomes (1 month)

Learner Outcomes Form issued to Business 1 month after training completes.

Step 15
Business Impact Review (3 months)

Impact Review Form and Social Responsibility Commitments Review issued to Business 3 months after final training aim completes.

Step 16
Final Payment

Final 10% payment authorised and released according to the payment terms following receipt of Learner Impact Review, Business Impact Review and a positive update on the Social Responsibility Commitments. 

Step 17
Business Impact Review (6 months)

Impact Review Form issued to Business 6 months after final training aim completes.

What do I need to consider in my application?

Growth Case and Business Impact

  • Explain the measurable business benefits expected from the training (e.g., increased sales, entering new markets, efficiency improvements).
  • Include clear growth metrics (percentage improvements, volumes, timelines).
  • Make it clear how the training itself will directly create these outcomes. 
  • Explain how the staff selected (their roles and development needs), is central to ensuring the training delivers meaningful business impact.
  • Explain the effect of not securing Skills Bank support.

Training Plan

  • List all courses for which support is being requested, including the training provider, number of learners, and cost per learner.
  • Attach course proposals for each training activity listed.  A course proposal should meet minimum requirements. See the guidance requirements for a proposal here.
  • Download, complete and attach the training matrix to your application. You can download the matrix here. See guidance on how to complete the matrix here.
  • Ensure all information is consistent and reflects discussions already held with the provider.

For full guidance on what to include in your Skills Bank application click here.
Alternatively you can contact a Skills Advisor for further support and guidance. 

If your business is based in Barnsley, Doncaster, or Rotherham contact:

If your business is based in Sheffield contact: