FIS is working with The Skills Centre to deliver a series of L2 drylining course flyer and dates that will help bring new talent into the finishes and interiors sector. To make these programmes truly impactful, we are asking employers to play an active role in supporting learners as they prepare for work.

The Skills Centre will be running an Introduction to Drylining course across its training facilities, giving participants the core skills, industry awareness, and confidence needed to begin a career in our sector. Employer support in the Essex area is essential to bridge the gap between training and employment.

We are calling on members to help strengthen these programmes by offering:

• Work experience placements that give learners real insight into site environments
• Employment opportunities for job-ready candidates
• Apprenticeships that allow new entrants to continue their development while contributing to your business

Your involvement will directly support The Skills Centre in delivering successful pre-employment pathways—ensuring learners can transition smoothly into the workforce and helping address the ongoing skills shortage in our sector.

By taking part, you will not only provide invaluable on-site experience for new entrants and career changers but also help build the future skilled workforce that our industry depends on.

If you are interested in supporting these learners, contact Marie Flinter or Beena Nana or call the FIS office on 0121 707 0077.

FIS and Worshipful Company of Plaisterers have announced the winners of the sector Training Awards at its lunch held at Plaisterers’ Hall in London today.

In front of a packed audience at Plaisterers’ Hall, the winners of the 2025 Training Awards were announced and presented by Guest Speaker Philippa Tuttiett.

The Awards are a collaboration between FIS and The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers to recognise outstanding apprentices and students, and individuals and organisations that have made a lasting contribution to training and development in plastering and interior trades. Also recognised were the Rising Stars of our sector and a Lifetime contribution to skills and training development.

John Telling, Master of the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, said “The Company is absolutely delighted to once again host these prestigious awards in our magnificent Hall.  We are delighted to have teamed up with FIS to recognise the achievements of many within plastering and the finishes and interiors sector”.

Commenting on the awards, FIS President Ian Strangward said: “I congratulate all the amazing people shortlisted today. Today provides and opportunity to celebrate and recognise that every nominee, every mentor, every employer here is part of a bigger story. A story of an industry evolving and building the competence base we need to build tomorrow”

The 2025 award winners are:

Apprentice of the Year – Plastering
WINNER: Jake Waite of Wannop

Runners up: Damian Hayes from Thomas and Wilsons, and George Stamp of Locker and Riley (Fibrous Plastering)

Apprentice / Student of the Year – Interior Systems
WINNER: Nicole McKeown of Errigal Contracts

Runners up: Sam Woodward of Measom Dryline and Dawson Dellar of ACS Plastering

Student of the Year – Plastering
WINNER: Monique Fennell of Cadman and Manpen Systems

Runners up: Mohammad Abuali studying at The City of Liverpool College and Yusuf Ibrahim studying at Derby College

Colleges and Independent Training Providers (large)
Winner – NPTC Group of Colleges
Runner up – Coleg Menai

Colleges and Independent Training Providers (small)
Winner – The Skills Centre
Runner up – Carlisle College

Formula Trophy
WINNER: KL Langton Decorative Plasterwork

FIS Member Training Programme
WINNER: Zentia

Training Champion
WINNER: Terry McDermott of Errigal Contracts

Rising Star
WINNER: Craig Dyson of TPI Taping and Jointing

Lifetime Contribution to Training Award
WINNER: Richard Jones of Grwp Llandrillo Menai

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their hard work and dedication in pursuing their academic goals!

Our thanks go to our awards and event sponsors British Gypsum, Saint-Gobain Formula, The Plaisterers Charity and CITB.

FIS was proud to support SkillBuild 2025, the UK’s largest multi-trade skills competition, which once again brought together an impressive pool of talented and motivated individuals from across the country. The event celebrates the very best emerging professionals in construction and highlights the vital role skills competitions play in shaping the future of our industry.

SkillBuild continues to be a catalyst for developing new talent, inspiring career pathways, and showcasing the high standards of craftsmanship across the built environment. The passion, dedication and potential demonstrated by competitors this year was exceptional, and a positive reflection of the next generation entering our sector.

FIS was delighted to be part of a programme that not only recognises excellence but also strengthens the industry’s commitment to skills development and future workforce growth.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a consultation on proposed changes to strengthen the Control of Asbestos Regulations and update guidance on asbestos management.

The consultation aims to improve clarity, consistency and safety across the industry, with proposed updates including:

• Clearer definitions of what constitutes work with asbestos, helping duty holders better understand their legal responsibilities.
• Measures to ensure independence and impartiality in roles responsible for clearing asbestos, reducing the risk of exposure during and after remediation.
• Improvements to supporting guidance to aid compliance and raise standards of asbestos management.

HSE is seeking views from contractors, building owners, employers, and others working with or managing asbestos in buildings.

Consultation deadline: Friday 9 January

FIS encourages members to read the proposals and submit feedback to help shape the future of asbestos regulation.

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has released a new free standard, BS 30417, offering practical guidance on how to ensure Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is inclusive, appropriate, and effective for a diverse workforce.

As the construction and fit-out sector continues to improve safety culture and tackle barriers to recruitment and retention, the publication of BS 30417 provides employers with clear, actionable recommendations on:

• Selection and procurement of inclusive PPE
• Fit testing and adjustment to ensure proper protection
• Training and information to support correct use

The standard is designed to help organisations meet their responsibilities under health and safety, equality, and employment legislation, ensuring that PPE works effectively for all individuals regardless of size, shape, gender or specific needs.

BS 30417 is available to download free of charge, providing an accessible resource for employers looking to improve workplace safety and inclusivity.

FIS encourages members to review the guidance and consider how it can be applied within their own operations.