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:
If your business is based in Barnsley, Doncaster, or Rotherham contact:
- Pete Hardwick: Pete.Hardwick@Southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk
- Pete Hardwick: Pete.Hardwick@Southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk
If your business is based in Sheffield contact:
- James Mullen: James.Mullen@Southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk
The Application Process
Business submits application with support of Skills Advisors
Stage 1 eligibility checks performed by Skills Bank team
Application is reviewed by 3 individuals
Application is submitted to panel for decision
Business is notified of decision
Successful applications will receive documentation
(Agreement, Skills Deal, Bank Details Request Form)
Business communicates with Provider(s)
Business is issued registration documentation for completion (Business and Learner)
Learners start training outlined in Skills Deal
Mid-Point Review conducted 3 months into training commencement
Training concludes and business informs Skills Bank of completion
Completion/Feedback form issued to be submitted by business with relevant evidence of achievement and invoice/payment records.
90% payment authorised and released according to the payment terms
Learner Outcomes Form issued to Business 1 month after training completes.
Impact Review Form and Social Responsibility Commitments Review issued to Business 3 months after final training aim completes.
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.
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:
- Pete Hardwick: Pete.Hardwick@Southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk
If your business is based in Sheffield contact:
- James Mullen: James.Mullen@Southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk
