SKILLS HUB
Welcome to the Skills Hub, the area for training and learning. The hub brings together details of courses specific to the finishes and interiors sector, making accessing and booking training quick and easy. In addition, it provides information on sector careers, apprenticeships and funding, as well as access to e-learning, CPD and other training.
Some information is restricted and only accessible to FIS members. Not an FIS member?
Recruitment into the sector through FIS programmes
Information on qualifications relevant to the sector
Careers in the finishes and interiors sector
Training available to support your workforce
Advice
Our experts are always on hand to answer any skills and training queries. You can ask questions by completing the form at the bottom of the page or if your query is urgent call 0121 707 0077.
SKILLS NEWS
FIS to Exhibit at SkillBuild National Final 2025
FIS is proud to be supporting this year’s SkillBuild National Final, taking place at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes, on 19–20 November 2025, the UK’s largest multi-trade skills competition showcasing the next generation of construction talent. Visitors to the event...
FIS Partners with The Skills Centre to Support New Skills Bootcamps and Employment Programmes
FIS is proud to be partnering with The Skills Centre to support a series of Skills Bootcamps and Employment Programmes at training facilities across the UK. As part of this initiative, The Skills Centre will be delivering an ‘Introduction to Drylining and Insulation’...
Have Your Say: Help Shape the Future of Plastering in Scotland
FIS is encouraging members across Scotland to take part in a national review of the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for plastering — a crucial step in ensuring training and qualifications reflect the skills, techniques, and technologies used in today’s industry....
Expand your team with a Government Supported Kickstart Employee
The Plan for Jobs has introduced new support for FIS members to take on 16-24 for initial six months from the Government’s new Kick-start scheme. The new £2 billion Kickstart scheme is designed to help employers to create new jobs for those aged 16-24, claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. There is no cap on the number of places per employer.
Funding will be available for each six month job placement and will cover 100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week and employers will be able to top this wage up.
BuildBack Programme is back
BuildBack is designed to provide opportunities for job seekers who are serious about developing a career in drylining.
Trainees complete a two-week Specialist Upskilling Programme (SUP) in drylining at Birmingham South and City College to develop the skills and competencies required for installing drylining, followed by a two-week work placement on-site with a local employer. All trainees will be offered at least one job interview and those who secure full-time employment will have their fees paid for ongoing training to NVQ Level 2 in drylining. All trainees will receive free personal protective equipment (PPE) and have their CSCS card paid for.
The FIS Skills Strategy
The FIS Skills and Competence strategy is led by the FIS Skills Board and built on the FIS Competency SAKE Framework, which is a system to measure competency through a combination of Skills, Attitude, Knowledge, Experience.
Skills: The practical application of knowledge learnt through on and/or off-the-job training.
Attitude: The mindset or approach required for competence, across the entire occupation.
Knowledge: The information, technical knowledge, and ‘know-how’ the individual needs to successfully carry out their duties.
Experience: The enhanced knowledge or skill acquired through practical experience.