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
FIS to support specialist construction skills development
FIS will help address skills shortages and improve access to specialist training across the fit-out, drylining and plastering industries through the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) Specialist Upskilling Fund. FIS is one of 11 organisations selected...
FIS publishes revised Client Guide to Office Fit-Out and Refurbishment
FIS has launched a revised Client Guide to Office Fit-Out and Refurbishment to promote best practice in the fit-out process and to take account of new working practices and advances in sustainability. The situation post-Covid and Grenfell has fundamentally changed the...
How the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will affect FIS members
FIS has been closely monitoring developments in Government plans to introduce a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in January 2027 and how it will impact our members. The measures will apply to importers of relevant goods, but clarity has been missing in a few...