Apprenticeships - Guidance for Employers
This section of the website gives you information on apprenticeships available to the Finishes and Interiors Sector Workforce. It is not exhaustive and for advice on process or funding for getting yourself or your workforce qualified you can talk to a member of the FIS Team on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org
Apprenticeships in the Finishes and Interiors Sector
An apprenticeship is a job with training to recognised industry standards that supports entry to an occupation. Apprenticeships blend on and off the job training, but must involve at least 6 hours off-the-job training per week. It is up to the employer and provider to decide how the training is delivered. This could be at the apprentice’s usual place of work, or at an external location (e.g. a college or specialist training site).
Employers can use different training models to meet their needs, including regular day release, block release, and special training days/workshops. While there is no prescribed way of delivering training for any given standard, there are some common models, which can be arranged adjusted to suit the needs of employer and the apprentice – you can talk to the FIS team about models that will best suit you and your apprentices. FIS has produced an information sheet if you are considering taking on an apprentice and the options available to you.
At the end of the apprenticeship occupational competence is tested by an independent, end point assessment.
If you are thinking about an apprenticeship, contact FIS on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org and one of our specialist team will be in touch to talk you through options and help you to get started.
Apprenticeship funding
Apprentice funding can come via a variety of routes depending on where you operate in the UK. As well as National or Regional Funding you may be eligible for additional funding via the CITB. If you are interested in taking on an apprentice, contact the FIS on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org and we will ensure that you receive advice in terms of recruitment, induction, training provision and funding options.
Mentor Training
Organisations that allocate coaches and mentors to apprentices have a higher retention rate and a higher apprenticeship successful completion rate. This is an opportunity to train your supervisors as mentors, the course is fully funded for SME’s with apprentices in London.
T-Levels
T-levels are a new type of technical qualification in England, designed to provide young people with the skills and knowledge needed for specific industries. Employers should be aware of T-levels when taking on apprentices because these qualifications are tailored to meet the needs of various sectors, ensuring that apprentices are equipped with relevant and up-to-date expertise. By understanding T-levels, employers can make informed decisions when hiring apprentices, knowing that they have received specialised training that aligns with the requirements of the industry. This awareness can help employers to identify candidates who have the potential to make valuable contributions to their organisations and thrive in their chosen field.
The Education Landscape: A Guide for Employers
An easy to understand and independent overview of the options for engaging with the education and skills landscape, plus the benefits of doing so.
Common Apprenticeships in the Finishes and Interiors Sector
utilised across the UK
English Apprenticeships
There are four key trade related Apprenticeship Standards covering the Finishes and Interiors Sector in England (that are eligible for funding via the Apprenticeship Levy)
Level 3 Advanced Carpentry and Joinery
The existing frameworks for Drylining, Ceiling Fixing, Partitioning, Plastering and Carpentry and Joinery may still be offered, but are being phased out in favour of the above qualifications.
Welsh Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships in Wales are being reviewed. The current Apprenticeship frameworks for England and Wales are still available
Scottish Modern Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeship for Construction Specialist Apprenticeship has been developed by the SSC. This apprenticeship is managed by the CITB. The Construction Specialist pathway allows you to study one of the following:
Ceiling Fixing / Dry Lining – Finishing / Dry Lining – Fixing / Steel Fixing Occupations
To find out how FIS is supporting the introduction of the new Interior Systems Installer Apprenticeship Standard
Building an Apprentice Workforce Webinar: Listen Again
Employing an apprentice is a big step, but you are not on your own. This workshop focussed on how employers are making it work in our sector and looked at funding and support available to businesses looking to invest in the future workforce through apprenticeships.
Book your FREE 1-2-1 FIS Skills and Funding Clinic to help you optimise funding you can access to support your training needs
Download Manual
The ‘Flexible Apprenticeships in Construction’ manual sets out how the delivery of apprenticeship training can be flexed to meet employer needs; and how the length of an apprenticeship can be reduced where an individual has existing relevant knowledge or skills.
FIS have a dedicated team to help you find and deliver apprenticeships
For advice on process or funding for getting yourself or your workforce qualified view our Skills and Funding page contact the FIS Team on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org