National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from 7 - 11 February, is focussed on raising the profile of apprenticeships, and events are being held across the country to promote how easy it is for employers to take on apprentices and the funding that is available to invest in training.
NSCC and its member organisations are committed to facilitating training and qualification opportunities in the specialist sector, particularly for apprentices. Traditionally, it has been difficult for new entrants in specialist trades and NSCC works with ConstructionSkills to develop Specialist Apprentice Programmes (SAPs) which are now available in:
• Diamond Drilling and Sawing (DSA)
• Piling Site Operative (FPS)
• External Wall Insulation (INCA)
• Road Safety Markings (RSMA)
• In-Situ Resin Flooring (FeRFA)
• Sealant Application (ASA)
• Land Drilling (BDA)
• Surface Preparation (FeRFA)
• Passive Fire Protection (ASFP)
The Government has placed apprenticeships at the heart of its Skills for Sustainable Growth strategy with a commitment to increasing investment in apprenticeships by £250 million and raising the number of adult apprenticeships available by 75,000 by 2015. NSCC supports the Cross-Industry Construction Apprenticeship Task Force (CCATF) which aims to increase the number of apprenticeships by championing the culture of training in the construction industry.
David Jones, President of NSCC, explains why he is committed to apprenticeships:
“The specialist sector represents a hugely diverse range of skills and we need to invest now to secure future talent. By employing apprentices, businesses just like mine benefit from a more competent workforce and an improved sense of teamwork as more experienced employees pass on their knowledge and skills.”
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