by Clair Mooney | 14 Feb, 2025 | Drylining, Employment, Skills
Construction training provider, The Skills Centre has launched a cutting-edge apprenticeship scheme specialising in drylining.
Designed in collaboration with employers and endorsed by FIS, this specialist training programme will launch in March at The Skills Centre’s new green skills training facility in Edgware, run in partnership with Ballymore, Places for London and Barnet Council. The programme will then expand to The Skills Centre’s Build East facility at The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and into a new custom facility in Essex later this year.
With demand for new housing, the need to upgrade buildings across the UK to help optimise space and deliver net-zero emissions by 2050, demand for interior systems, insulation and retrofit skills is surging. Yet, the industry faces a critical shortage of trained professionals. Our new interior systems and drylining apprenticeship will help bridge this gap by equipping learners with some of the essential skills required to meet these targets. An estimated 3.4 million properties in London alone require retrofitting, and with 78% of construction employers reporting retrofit skills shortages, this training is timely and essential.
The drylining apprenticeship training will cover:
- Partition Walls
- MF Ceilings
- Grid Ceilings
- Shaft Walls
- Metsec Installation
- Rainscreen Cladding
- Passive Fire Protection
Apprentices will gain additional qualifications in:
- NVQ L2 Interior Systems
- PASMA
- CSCS
- SSSTS (if eligible)
This apprenticeship is open to those seeking to build a successful career within the construction sector, providing the skills, knowledge, and behaviours necessary to establish a strong foundation in the industry.
Supporting employer recruitment: To assist employers with recruitment, The Skills Centre offers 8-week interior systems bootcamps for new entrants. These bootcamps provide a mix of classroom and practical training, including CSCS Green Card, and allow employers to meet pre-screened candidates and conduct two-week trial placements before committing to an apprenticeship hire. This provides companies with access to a pipeline of engaged, local candidates equipped with the relevant skills to excel in the apprenticeship programme from day 1.
Jon Howlin, CEO of The Skills Centre, said:
“Recruiting quality candidates has been a significant challenge for many in the construction industry. Our apprenticeship and bootcamp programmes are designed to alleviate this by providing a vital pipeline of skilled, local talent ready to meet the industry’s evolving demands.
“The Skills Centre is committed to collaborating with employers and construction companies to ensure that local people have access to opportunities in the industry and that our partners receive the skilled workforce they need for their projects.”
While the Interior Systems Apprenticeship is a new addition to The Skills Centre’s delivery, they have been providing apprenticeships in Groundwork, Formwork, Steel Fixing and Highways Maintenance for several years, and recently received a Good overall grade from OFSTED with Outstanding marks for Adult Education Provisions.
FIS CEO Iain McIlwee added:
“Employers want people, people want jobs that allow them to earn and develop and government want a productive workforce, yet we seem to make it complicated and consistently fail to meet the expectations of each other.
“It is refreshing to be working so closely with The Skills Centre to rethink the way that we put it all together and deliver a programme that can work for everyone. Flexible, practical and quality provision, tailored to employer need in an environment that supports the individuals is what this is all about. Plugging in the Bootcamps makes sense too, it means employers and individuals can start the process, help people get productive early and ensure that we are investing in the people that want to and will be able to carve a career out in our industry with full knowledge of what that is before the serious investment starts. The next 5 years is going to see major reform of the apprenticeship model and this is a fabulous way to kick that off in the finishes and interiors sector”.
The Skills Centre are working with a number of employers to support both the Bootcamp and the Apprenticeship, including Measom, one of the leading Drywall Contractors in the UK and an integral part of the construction industry.
Rikki Wild, Training Manager at Measom said,
“Creating clear and accessible entry points into the dry lining industry is crucial for its long-term success, and this programme achieves just that. By combining intensive bootcamps with structured apprenticeships, we are offering a comprehensive pathway for new talent to enter the sector, providing them with the essential skills and knowledge from the very start. At Measom, we recognise the great value of practical, employer-led training that ensures apprentices are fully prepared and confident when working on-site. This initiative plays a key role in helping employers like us develop a highly skilled, adaptable, and sustainable workforce, which is vital to meeting the future needs and challenges of the industry.”
To learn more about this apprenticeship opportunity or to apply, visit https://theskillscentre.co.uk/courses-services/interior-systems-installer-dry-lining-apprenticeships.
by Oscar Venus | 10 Feb, 2025 | Skills
Embarking on a career journey is an exciting yet daunting prospect, especially for those just starting to explore their options. While there are numerous pathways to kickstart your career, apprenticeships stand out as one of the most effective routes. Not only do they offer the chance to earn while you learn, but they also help you avoid the heavy burden of student debt—a significant advantage in today’s economy.
One of the most promising sectors offering apprenticeship opportunities is the construction industry, particularly within the finishes and interiors sector. This field provides a diverse array of apprenticeship roles, catering to a variety of interests and skills. Whether you prefer the hands-on experience of working on-site or the organisational challenges of managing projects from an office, there is a pathway for you.
What’s crucial to understand is that where you begin your apprenticeship may not necessarily dictate where you end up. The skills you acquire during your apprenticeship will not only serve you in your immediate role but will also equip you with a toolkit for a successful career throughout your life.
These skills go beyond technical know-how; they encompass problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and project management—essential abilities that are valued in any professional setting. As you navigate through your apprenticeship, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining insights and experiences that will shape your career trajectory.
Choosing an apprenticeship is a strategic move toward building a fulfilling career while developing lifelong skills. So, whether you’re drawn to the thrill of construction or the intricacies of project management, consider an apprenticeship as your launchpad to success. It’s more than just a job; it’s the foundation for a prosperous future.
by Clair Mooney | 5 Feb, 2025 | Skills
FIS has been working with members to develop the competency frameworks for key occupations in our sector. These frameworks are now open for a 30 day consultation and your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of your industry ensuring a strong, sustainable future for the profession. Click on the occupations below for more information:
These frameworks define the Skills, Knowledge, Experience, and Behaviours essential for each trade. We encourage you to submit your feedback by 28 February 2025.
by Oscar Venus | 31 Jan, 2025 | Skills
Transforming the Construction Workforce: Insights from the Mark Farmer ITB Review
The construction industry is at a pivotal moment, and the recent review by Mark Farmer of the Industry Training Board (ITB) is a beacon of hope for those looking to transform our workforce. As we collectively navigate the complexities of this sector, FIS (Finishes and Interiors Sector) has been actively engaged in this process, ensuring that our insights and recommendations are incorporated.
Beena Nana, FIS Head of Skills, has been vocal about the significance of this review. She expressed her relief at the publication of Farmer’s findings, which outline a “bold new vision” for the ITB model. This vision aims to evolve into a world-class construction workforce planning and development system, essential for meeting the demands of our ever-changing industry.
Farmer’s critical analysis highlights the scale and complexity of the challenges we face. It is clear that reform is not just a necessity but a pressing requirement. To ensure that we are all aligned, the recommendations from this review must coincide with the initiatives being implemented by Skills England and the Devolved Nations. This alignment is crucial as we collectively work towards a common goal: empowering employers to implement effective training and recruitment strategies.
The construction sector underpins the growth agenda that the new government aspires to achieve. Our ability to support this growth hinges on our workforce’s skills and adaptability. The insights provided by Mark Farmer will play a vital role in shaping our approach to training and development in the industry.
We encourage all stakeholders to engage with this review. If you have initial thoughts or comments on the findings and recommendations, please direct them to Beena Nana. Your input is invaluable as we strive to enhance our industry’s capabilities and ensure a robust future for construction.
For those interested in exploring the full review, access it
by Clair Mooney | 30 Jan, 2025 | Labour, Main News Feed, Skills
FIS is working with British Gypsum and Construction Skills People to deliver Skills Bootcamps in Interior Systems at their Erith Academy. Aimed at adults aged 19 and over, Skills Bootcamps can support businesses in upskilling their existing workforce or to recruit new talent. They are developed and delivered in partnership with your business and can be offered full or part-time.
How Skills Bootcamps can benefit your business
Skills Bootcamps can help you to:
- quickly recruit and upskill staff with the right training and skills
- reduce costs associated with traditional recruitment processes
- boost productivity with motivated learners who can bring in fresh ideas and perspectives
How can you get involved in Bootcamps?
FIS is working with British Gypsum and Construction Skills People to deliver Skills Bootcamps in Interior Systems at their Erith Academy. This is a 10 day course across two weeks:
- Week one: 31 March – 04 April
- Week two: 07 – 11 April
The course will include:
Day 1 – Course overview, Introduction to H&S in Construction (Interior Systems)
Day 2 – Understanding your carbon footprint & Mental Health Awareness
Day 3 – 4 – Beginners Metal Stud work for Dry Lining Systems
Day 5 – Gyplyner Wall Lining Systems
Day 6 – Metal Frame (MF) Ceiling Systems
Day 7 – 8 – Dotting and Dabbing Boarding Technique
Day 9 – 10 – Hand Jointing/Tape and Jointing Systems
We require support from members in the South East, London and Kent, who are able to provide interviews, work placements or employment.
Please contact marieflinter@thefis.org should you require further information.
by Oscar Venus | 23 Jan, 2025 | Main News Feed, Skills
National Apprenticeship Week will take place between 10 – 16 February 2025 and the theme for this year has been unveiled as Skills for Life, reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.
FIS is proud to show its support this campaign that highlights the boundless possibilities that can stem from apprenticeships. We are committed to promoting the week and assisting all FIS members in their efforts to do the same. This year’s theme, “Skills for Life,” is a perfect opportunity to showcase the exceptional work done by our sector in training the next generation.
The week will focus on the benefits apprenticeships can have on individuals, businesses, and local communities. We are calling on employers, training providers, individuals and communities to get involved by encouraging everyone to consider how apprenticeships can help to provide #SkillsForLife.
From virtual career fairs, myth busting talks, graduation ceremonies through to factory tours, the week has something for everyone. You will hear personal stories from apprentices and employers about their own journeys and experiences and why apprenticeships provide #SkillsForLife. We are keen to celebrate the diversity and value that apprenticeships bring to employers, apprentices and communities across England.
To support National Apprenticeship Week 2025 individuals, employers, training providers and communities can get involved by encouraging everyone to consider how apprenticeships can help build #SkillsforLife. A toolkit is available to support the apprenticeship community with planning their activity for the week.
You can keep up to date with National Apprenticeship Week updates by following Apprenticeships on LinkedIn and use the hashtags #NAW2025 and #SkillsForLife on social media activity.
To find out more about apprenticeships, visit: www.apprenticeships.gov.uk.
