An agreement signed today by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the National Careers Service paves the way for the provision of more extensive and effective advice on careers in construction for potential recruits. It will have an important part to play in delivering the skilled workforce the industry needs as it returns to growth.

The agreement will:

  • Forge strong links between National Careers Service and CITB advisers.
  • Ensure that all National Careers Service advisers are able to provide consistent and comprehensive advice on construction careers.
  • Provide individuals with a better understanding of the opportunities available in construction.
  • Give employers access to a wider range of suitable candidates for jobs by ensuring people have the right advice to gain the skills needed by the industry

With the economy picking up, the construction industry needs to attract over 29,000 new recruits every year for the next four years to meet the increased demand for skills and to replace those retiring.

However, the industry has traditionally struggled to position itself as an attractive ‘career for all’ and CITB  research has found that it is further disadvantaged by a low level of understanding amongst teachers and careers advisors of the wide variety of roles and progression options a career in construction can offer.

Nicola Thompson, Director of Communications and Change at CITB said: “I am delighted that we have been able to develop this agreement with the National Careers Service. Our strategy is to form strategic partnerships with industry and careers services to provide high quality careers information, advice and guidance which inspires a diverse range of talented people to join the construction industry.

“It focuses on ‘educating the educators’ and forging links between employers and schools to promote construction as an exciting and dynamic industry to work in. It also encourages individuals working in other sectors to consider construction if they have transferable skills.

“We are committed to working with National Careers Service to ensure that high quality, expert impartial advice is readily available in support of future growth in the construction industry and to help individuals make informed decisions.”

Joe Billington, Director of the National Careers Service, said: “It is essential that employers are centre stage in inspiring and exciting people about the vista of opportunities that are available. With genuine contact with employers and support from colleges and schools, the National Careers Service can offer the inspiring careers advice to young people and adults at every stage of their careers to help them make the right decisions so they can flourish and prosper in life and work.”

For more information about CITB, please click here.

For more information about NATIONAL CAREERS SERVICE, please click here.