by Oscar Venus | 8 Aug, 2024 | Skills, Technical
FIS is developing a series of modules to help train the next generation of estimators and procurement teams and we would like to preview the modules with specialists who could help shape the final draft.
The training course has been designed to educate and inform new entrants to the sector and those moving from site-based activities to an in house estimating role and is broken into three modules
- The contract Module
- The commercial Module
- The technical Module
The aim of this course is to provide:
- An overview of what estimating entails
- What contractual terms should be known
- How commercial decisions are made
- provide granular information about drylining systems to estimators.
We would like to invite you to have access to our development slides to let us know if we have missed anything or if there should be more emphasis on a particular aspect of the role.
Please contact FIS Technical Director Joe Cilia joecilia@thefis.org for details on how to access the course, and who knows, it could be the best read of the summer break?
by Clair Mooney | 8 Aug, 2024 | Main News Feed, Skills
As construction output is expected to grow the finishes and Interiors sector needs to recruit new entrants so that it can keep working. The STEM Ambassador Programme is partnered with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to facilitate the Go Construct Construction STEM Ambassador scheme. Through this collaboration, they aim to showcase the amazing career opportunities in construction and inspire young people to work in the industry.
Go Construct STEM Ambassadors act as the face of the industry for young people, inspiring them to consider a career in construction and the built environment through sharing their experiences and promoting opportunities. The commitment is to be involved in at least two activities per year. Ambassadors lead a wide range of activities, including:
- Running a trade stand at a careers fair, answering questions and handing out leaflets.
- Delivering a talk, sharing your experiences of getting into and working in the industry.
- Leading practical sessions or workshops, giving young people a taste of life in construction.
- Providing one-to-one mentorship to someone who is just starting out.
- Network with like-minded professionals, developing your own career as an ambassador.
Not only is becoming a Go Construct STEM Ambassador a great way to develop your employability skills and become a part of a community, through activities you will be helping to inspire the next generation of construction workers and change perceptions about the industry and the Finishes and Interiors Sector.
Please contact Marie Flinter a call on 0121 707 0077 or 07799 903103 or email marieflinter@thefis.org for more information and to join the upcoming webinars.
- Tuesday 20 August – 12:00/13:00
- Tuesday 17 September – 10:00/11:00
If you are already a registered STEM Ambassador working in the finishes and interiors sector, please let Marie know.
by Clair Mooney | 13 Jun, 2024 | Skills
FIS is continuing its work with No Going Back, an initiative to support prison leavers, and an opportunity has come up to visit HMP Brixton.
The visit will take place on Tuesday 25 June from 9am and we are looking for employers to join us to explain the pathways into the sector and how they can build a lasting career.
This visit will provide an opportunity to observe the Drylining training programme in action. Employers will witness the skills and dedication of the trainees firsthand. Additionally, there will be a chance to interact with the trainees, many of whom have shown a strong interest in pursuing careers in construction.
Employer involvement would not only bolster our rehabilitation efforts but also potentially address some of the skills gaps within the industry.
It would be valuable for employers with ongoing job openings to meet these men, as well as for those who are hesitant about hiring them. This interaction can help change perceptions and demonstrate the potential these men have to contribute positively in the workplace.
Instructors at HMP Brixton will provide details on the training individuals have undertaken during their sentence. Additionally, No Going Back and Employers can deliver an overall presentation (a talk on the company and pathways to roles in the industry) and men could showcase different drylining tasks.
There will then be dedicated time for one-on-one sessions between employers and the prison leavers.
If you can support this event, email beenanana@thefis.org by Wednesday 19 June.
by Clair Mooney | 14 May, 2024 | Skills
Following consultation with employers and NOCN the proposed End Point Assessment (EPA) practical element for Ceilings and Partitions is unworkable and some changes need to be made.
The findings were that each element, (core qualification and specialist option) should realistically take 10 hours each for a pass and an additional 8 hours for a merit to be completed over a 3-day assessment period.
In order for NOCN (National Open College Network) to apply to IfATE (Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education) for a dispensation to increase the time from the current completion time of two days to three days and to cover the areas taken out of the practical by questioning, we need the support from employers to confirm this will meet the needs of the sector.
If you are able to support this or would like further information, please contact Beena Nana by 24 May.
by Clair Mooney | 18 Apr, 2024 | Skills
CITB is looking for plasterers or construction employers in the plastering industry to help shape the future of this occupation. Individuals will join CITB’s Plastering – National Occupational Standards (NOS) review group to:
Develop NVQ and SVQ qualification structures for Plastering
Ensure your employer voice is heard
Shape the future of the Plastering
If you are interested in getting involved, complete this short form to register your interest https://forms.office.com/e/QiNRz99VqV or contact standards.qualifications@citb.co.uk
For more information please visit National Occupational Standards (NOS) – CITB
by Oscar Venus | 10 Apr, 2024 | Skills
Do you have a passion for inspiring and guiding young minds towards a brighter future? Then becoming a part of the Go Construct STEM Ambassador programme could be the perfect opportunity for you!
By participating in their webinar, you’ll gain insight into the work that Ambassadors are already doing, and how you can contribute to this inspiring initiative. You’ll also be introduced to STEM Learning, and have the chance to ask any questions you may have.
On top of that, you’ll receive a step-by-step guide on how to register as a Go Construct STEM Ambassador, and a live sign-up will also be available during the webinar.
Contact Marie Flinter at marieflinter@thefis.org for the link to your preferred session. There are webinars running on:
Thursday 18 April – 10am/11am
Tuesday 21 May – 10am/11am
Don’t miss the chance to make a difference in the Finishes and Interiors Sector
