In comparison the total numbers for the same period in the Finishes and Interiors Sector are:
Number of registered apprentices:
- England:
- Interior Systems Installer ST0388 = 90 (average annual starts 150)
- Plasterer ST0096 = 470 (average annual starts 629)
- England old framework (VQ outcome) = 62 Interior System, 240 Plastering
- Scotland = 88 Interior Systems, 70 Plastering
- Wales = 9 Interior Systems, 51 Plastering
- Completed VQ’s in Interior Systems = 1720
- Completed VQ’s in Plastering = 1380
A few factors will have contributed to the thriving numbers, including the Apprenticeship Employer Grant of £5,000, which was launched by the Scottish Government and SDS back in 2020-21. Additionally, those employers were supported by approximately £1.25m in CITB attendance grants. To date, there are 4,500 apprentices in Scotland with Levy-registered employers, who benefit from just over £90m in direct and indirect grants from CITB and SDS.
With much of the industry relying on word-of-mouth methods to recruit, it can be difficult to reach a more diverse range of applicants. Looking ahead, FIS is keen to support employers in this space, helping them create a more inclusive workplace, where the sector can benefit from the wide range of skills and traits.
George Swann FIS Skills and Training Lead says. “Wherever you are located in the UK, if your organisation is looking to take on apprentices now is the time to get vacancies up on platforms like Construction TalentView: Employer Registration and National Apprenticeship Services: Creating an Apprenticeship Advert to see existing vacancies go to: Find Apprenticeships Dryliners .
FIS is happy to support with any skills and training questions. Contact George on 07553 874838.
FIS Regional Meetings
With labour shortages and recruitment a key challenge within the sector, FIS is hosting a series of breakfast meetings to address the skills shortages. These events will focus on a collective response to labour shortages and attracting the next generation of workers.
See more news likes this
Construction Industry Levy Consensus 2025 – 2029
The CITB Consensus is underway and FIS members who are likely to pay the Construction Industry Levy as proposed by CITB for 2026 to 2029 are invited to have their say by participating in the Consensus Survey. The deadline for response is 2 May 2025. The proposals for...
H&S Working Group talks dust, manual handling, knives and pallet safety
The FIS Health and Safety Working Group met on 13th March 2025, Chaired by David Cant of Veritas Consulting. The mission of this group is through guidance, collaborative working and influencing external stakeholders to make sure people working in our sector are kept...
Payment Performance Update
The requirement for larger businesses on a half-yearly basis on their payment practices, policies and performance for financial years came into effect on 6 April 2017. Businesses are in scope of the requirement for a financial year if, on their last 2 balance sheet...