construction

Why the construction industry needs to investigate alternative paths to entry to address the ongoing pain of skills shortages

By Emma Dickson, Technical Director at Arcadis and industry co-chair of the Scottish Construction Leadership Forum’s Skills and Workforce sub group Employers in the construction industry in Scotland hardly need to be reminded of the skills shortages which are hampering the industry as it continues to focus on recovery – shortages which are coming close to threatening the sector’s long-term health. The fact that demand for skills is outstripping supply is…

The gateway to a great career – CLF skills portal opens the door to the built environment

A detailed guide to courses and training for individuals and companies focused on Scotland’s construction industry has been launched by industry collaboration body the Scottish Construction Leadership Forum (CLF). Officially known as the Built Environment Workforce Development Portal, the new guide will provide a breakdown of re-skilling and up-skilling courses by theme, occupation and region to allow users to search for training in emerging built environment approaches within Scotland. The directory, which is…

Construction summit focuses on future of apprenticeship training

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (the Institute) welcomed around 150 representatives of large and small employers to its first digital construction summit. This allowed everyone to take a wide-ranging look at the skills needs of the sector, how they are being served by current apprenticeships, and how this can be improved upon. The summit will pre-empt the revision of apprenticeship standards across the occupational route and a review…

Electrical work can take you around the world

Electrical apprentice Ellis Hamilton wanted a job that kept him on his feet and busy. Luckily the College of Haringey, Enfield and North London (CONEL) offered Ellis the opportunity of an electrical apprenticeship in construction. According to FE News, he now spends four out of five days on site and one in college exploring the theory behind the trade. This is a good balance for Ellis, who intends to work in the field…