We know that 2021 has been a good year for construction apprenticeship intake in Scotland. In my conversations with CITB and Skills Development Scotland, I have pointed out that small and medium-sized employers (SMEs) such as FMB members are responsible for the vast majority of apprenticeship recruitment. Certainly, well over 70% of new construction apprentices are employed and trained by SMEs.
Boosting capacity at construction colleges in Scotland
Despite the positive recruitment figures, there is still the issue of quality and quantity as reports indicate some of Scotland's colleges are struggling to supply enough spaces across craft apprenticeships for young people.
With an increasing interest in jobs and careers in construction from young people, we mustn't let this slip due to lack of supply of college places. Our members will expect Colleges Scotland, the CITB and Scottish Qualifications Authority to ensure there's sufficient capacity across Scotland's colleges to train new apprentices. At the same time there are impressive initiatives delivering a fresh approach to promoting careers in construction, such as the Build Your Future initiative.
Supporting the Build Your Future initiative
The Build Your Future initiative addresses how young people learn about the subjects they are studying and their future skills development. There are online resources and videos designed for educators, young people, parents, and employers. These 'off-the-shelf' templates are designed to help employers promote careers in the construction industry in a more coordinated fashion.
One of our Scotland Board members, Pam Wilson of Kevin Wilson Joiners and Building Contractors, has been engaging with 'Build Your Future' and she will be sharing her experiences as an employer about this soon.
Share your views
If you'd like to share your experiences as an employer with colleges or in promoting careers in construction to schools, then please get in touch.
Authors
Gordon Nelson
Director, Federation of Master Builders Scotland
