40,000 to be trained at new construction skills colleges by 2029
Backed by £100m in funding, the colleges will work with employers, existing further education institutions and local training providers
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The Department for Education (DfE) has announced that more than 40,000 people are to be trained in high-demand construction trades at a network of new Technical Excellence Colleges across England.
In its announcement, the government revealed that these 10 specialist colleges – one in each region – will deliver skills for roles including bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing and electrical work. The aim is to address workforce shortages and support the target of building 1.5 million homes by the end of the current parliament.
Backed by £100m in funding, the colleges will work with employers, existing further education institutions and local training providers.
Education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: “We need skilled workers to deliver the homes, schools and hospitals that communities across the country are crying out for.”
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the construction sector currently has about 35,000 job vacancies. Government ministers say the initiative will reduce reliance on overseas labour by developing domestic talent.
News of the technical colleges follows a separate £625m investment unveiled in March to train up to 60,000 additional construction workers through apprenticeships, skills bootcamps and industry placements.
Industry bodies welcomed the plan. David Hughes, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, said it was “very positive news” for employers and learners. Tim Balcon, who leads the Construction Industry Training Board, said the colleges would “nurture the next generation of skilled construction workers in local communities”.
The colleges will operate a “hub and spoke” model, linking with regional providers to share expertise and raise training standards. Institutions selected include Derby College Group, West Suffolk College, New City College in London, City of Sunderland College and Leeds College of Building.
The scheme is part of the government’s wider “Plan for Change”, which also includes a Youth Guarantee offering apprenticeships or training to all 18- to 21-year-olds in England.
