Reform UK has announced a £1.5 billion pledge aimed at expanding apprenticeships and vocational training, framing the policy as a way to discourage young people from pursuing university courses the party regards as low-value, dismissively labelled "Mickey Mouse degrees". The move forms part of Reform's wider push to position itself on skills and education policy, appealing to voters concerned about the cost and worth of certain degree courses relative to hands-on trades and technical careers.

The proposal centres on redirecting funding toward apprenticeship schemes and technical education routes, reflecting a broader debate in British politics over the value of some higher education qualifications versus vocational alternatives. The pledge adds to Reform's developing policy platform as the party seeks to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional focus areas ahead of future electoral contests.