One of the UK’s leading fit-out and joinery specialists has taken on seven new members of staff after they successfully completed an apprenticeship programme with the business – which saw them all pass with a Distinction. EE Smith, based in Leicester, has appointed Fenton Williams, Oscar Allen, Adam Ball, Chris
Despite the UK construction industry employing over 2.2 million people, only 15% are women, and they make up only 2% of manual skilled roles, such as electricians and plumbers. And the stakes are high, with the UK government committing over £700 billion in infrastructure investment over the next decade, targets
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and
A pioneering entry-level initiative giving people the chance to access careers in the construction industry has been launched in East London. Bellway’s Barking Project Team has invited Site Ready Solutions to set up a base in its main compound at Barking Riverside – including a cabin classroom, cabin tool store
Britain’s multi-billion-pound construction pipeline is under threat, as new data reveals the industry must recruit 61,000 new workers annually* – putting the Government’s five-year investment plan in jeopardy – including Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes by 2030. According to CV-Library, the UK’s leading job for construction roles*, demand
With over 140,000 vacancies, the UK construction industry is facing a major skills shortage[2]. To help address this gap, leading housebuilders Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes has hosted a week long work experience at its Clipstone Park development in Bedfordshire, encouraging more young people to consider careers in construction.
Starting out in the world of work can be tough, especially when experience is hard to come by. That’s why VIVID offers apprenticeships that give people the chance to learn on the job, gain qualifications, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Four new electrician apprentices have recently joined the
The looming changes to the UK Apprenticeship Levy are causing ripples across industries. For the construction sector, which often relies on Level 7 apprenticeships to address leadership skills gaps and attract younger talent, these changes are particularly significant. “With Levy funding for new Level 7 apprenticeship starters aged 22 and
A new programme is helping offenders to build a new life – and a career in construction – once they are released from prison. Industry-approved health and safety training is being offered by PLIAS Resettlement and funded by Ealing Council. It is specifically for borough residents who are currently serving
As construction projects grow more complex and safety standards tighten, PERI UK’s field services manager Terry Hall is on a mission to professionalise industrial training. Leading temporary works training programmes, including the only accredited formwork training courses in the UK, he is enhancing the skills – and confidence – needed
One of the UK’s leading fit-out and joinery specialists has taken on seven new members of staff after they successfully completed an apprenticeship programme with the business – which saw them all pass with a Distinction. EE Smith, based in Leicester, has appointed Fenton Williams, Oscar Allen, Adam Ball, Chris Burnett, Mark Cluer, Jack Mullings and Padraig Taylor as Bench Hand Joiners. It comes after they all successfully completed a two-year Furniture Manufacturing apprenticeship with EE Smith through delivery partner Leicester College. They were the first cohort to use EE Smith’s dedicated learning centre which was opened two years ago and provides a specialist area for apprentices to hone their skills. It marked a significant milestone for the company’s investment in training and skills development after all seven apprentices passed with a Distinction. The apprenticeship programme sees students spend 80 per cent of their time on-site, which is split between the learning centre where they are taught by dedicated trainers and the main production workshop where they are paired with a qualified Bench Hand Joiner, and 20 per cent at Leicester College. They also hold an awards ceremony to highlight the achievements of the apprentices, with the 2025 Apprentice of the Year Award presented to Fenton Williams and the Rising Star Award presented to first year apprentice Alice Musgrove. EE Smith’s 2025 intake sees a further 8 new Apprentices and 3 trainees joining the Leicester programme, along with 2 new London Apprentices and four already within the business who have just moved into their second year. Claire Noble, HR Manager at EE Smith, said: “It is fantastic to welcome seven extremely talented Bench Hand Joiners to the business as permanent members of the team as a result of their exceptional achievements. “We are very proud of our apprenticeship programme, and it is clear that the investment in our dedicated learning centre is already paying dividends. “The new dedicated learning centre provides a more structured approach and we have some very committed in-house trainers supporting them. “We work on some extremely prestigious projects, and it really gives us the opportunity to develop talent from the ground up. “We have been based in Leicester from more than 125 years, and we always try to give back to our community by striving to recruit and train local people, with a third all of employees starting their careers at EE Smith Contacts as apprentices “We are also aware that many of our apprentices join us between the ages of 16 and 18, so we do everything we can to help them settle into working while they study. “This includes holding a special welcome event for the new starters and their parents just before they join, providing free lunches before their first pay day and regular wellbeing checks throughout their apprenticeship. “It is also wonderful to be able to give recognition to our apprentices at our annual awards ceremony, and it was excellent to see Alice, who is our only female apprentice, receive the Rising Star Award. “We look forward to continuing to support our current apprentices to progress.” Fenton added: “I am very pleased to join EE Smith as a Bench Hand Joiner. The business has provided me with a wealth of experience and the opportunity to develop high-quality skills which will stand me in good stead to have a successful career in the industry. “It was also excellent to be named Apprentice of the Year 2025 in recognition of my achievements.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Despite the UK construction industry employing over 2.2 million people, only 15% are women, and they make up only 2% of manual skilled roles, such as electricians and plumbers. And the stakes are high, with the UK government committing over £700 billion in infrastructure investment over the next decade, targets for 1.5 million new homes by 2029, and a critical labour shortage across the country. To highlight this issue, Excavator Parts Direct (EPD), a leading UK supplier of excavator parts, has revealed key construction roles with significant gender disparities, what the opportunities are and what can be done. According to recent data, here are six positions with key opportunities to bridge the workforce gap: Position No. Of Female Employees Annual Recruitment Requirement (People/Year) Average Annual Salary Carpenter / Joiner 0.5% 5280 £35,000 Electrician 0.7% 3500 £34,000 Plumber 1.8% 1250 £32,000 Roofer 1.9% 690 £30,000 Painter and Decorator 7.7% 690 £30,000 Plant Operator 10.3% 1130 £28,000 Over a third of new entrants (37%) to the construction sector are female, however retention and progression is limited, with only 16% of senior roles held by women. The gender pay gap is also stark as women earn up to 33% less than men in equivalent roles, making it the biggest gap of any UK industry. This imbalance is particularly concerning given the UK’s severe labour shortage. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates the UK will need over 250,000 additional workers by 2028 to meet demand from infrastructure and housing projects. With 35% of the workforce over 50, retirement rates are outpacing recruitment. And despite growing conversations around workplace diversity, the latest ONS data shows that the number of women in skilled construction trades has remained stagnant for two decades, at 298,000. Jane McGuire Head of Business Services & HR from EPD, commented: “The construction industry is a great sector to work in; however female representation is shockingly low. Gender representation isn’t just a social issue – it’s a strategic one. There is a real shortage in labour, as well as a huge gap in terms of gender in construction roles, in particular skilled manual roles. This is a missed opportunity for everyone.” “The data shows us that women are significantly underrepresented in skilled trades and site-based roles, yet they make up over a third of new entrants to the industry. That gap between entry and progression is where we need to focus. At EPD, we believe the path forward includes inclusive apprenticeships, better PPE and site conditions, flexible working policies, and visible role models. When women can see themselves in these roles, and are supported to thrive, the entire industry benefits. It’s not just about fairness; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient workforce that is fit for what the country needs.” For more information about Excavator Parts Direct, visit https://excavatorpartsdirect.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and longest-running industry skills competition in the UK and has become a prestigious showcase for those in construction. This year, over 1,000 students battled it out across 10 construction trade categories during 16 Regional Qualifiers, each one day long, in which participants were assigned a task relevant to their trade. Eight students – the highest scorers in each category – will go head-to-head in the National Final at the Arena MK, Milton Keynes on 19–20 November, where the 10 winners will be crowned top of their trade. The three-day final will consist of competitors constructing a project within 18 hours, with an expert panel of judges assessing them on a number of characteristics – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements. With CITB’s annual industry forecast highlighting that 47,860 extra workers are needed per year from 2025–2029, SkillBuild continues to be an important platform to spotlight the industry and the opportunities available. Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “Congratulations to all of the competitors progressing through to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final – it’s truly a great achievement for them. “In a time when construction skills are in high demand, it is more important than ever to spotlight the next generation of construction talent. SkillBuild continues to further this mission and is proud to demonstrate the value that a trainee or apprentice provides to their team. “The quality of participants never ceases to amaze me – I’m excited to see this year’s National Final and wish all the competitors the best of luck!” Josh Thompson, Painting and Decorating Judge, said: “Having been a former contestant myself, I know first-hand just how amazing a competition SkillBuild is, and I intend to pass on any words of wisdom I can do all the competitors. It’s so encouraging to see the enthusiasm from trainees and apprentices across the industry coming from all corners of the country. Good luck to everyone participating in the Final later this year!” CITB would like to thank all the fantastic sponsors, supporters and strategic partners of this year’s SkillBuild competitions:BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Careers Wales, CITB NI, Crown Paints, Festool, FIS, Institute of Carpenters, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint Gobain, Schluter, SPAX, Stablia, TARMAC, The Tile Association, Tilgear, Weber, Wienerberger, The Worshipful Company of Masons, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A pioneering entry-level initiative giving people the chance to access careers in the construction industry has been launched in East London. Bellway’s Barking Project Team has invited Site Ready Solutions to set up a base in its main compound at Barking Riverside – including a cabin classroom, cabin tool store and access to power and water supplies – to provide a safe working environment for training in real site conditions. The concept, led by GSQ Brickwork, is to provide initial two-week training courses to give participants the essential technical and soft skills required for entry-level construction roles. The participants are mentored by experienced tradespeople, with the initial course followed by a 12-week structured employer placement. The first course for bricklaying commenced on Monday 4 August with an initial cohort of four students taking part. David Burns, Managing Director at Bellway’s Barking Project Team, said: “We have a close working relationship with the excellent team at GSQ Brickwork who have worked on several of the phases of construction here at Barking Riverside. When we learned of their forward-thinking Site Ready Solutions initiative we were very keen to get involved and to support the scheme.” Site Ready Solutions brings together employers, training and education centres, trade bodies and local stakeholders, including charities and community groups, to remove barriers to entry for individuals of all ages, streamline the onboarding process for recruits and ensure long-term workforce development. The initial two-week Site Ready Programme includes as standard Level 1 Health & Safety and CSCS certification, along with practical skills in areas like employability and financial management. The following 12-week employer placement includes continuous support from Site Ready Solutions, ensuring learners are fully prepared for the workplace. Barking Riverside is regenerating the former Barking Power Station site in East London, with the scheme planned to eventually deliver around 20,000 homes, subject to planning permission, with Bellway set to build at least 4,000 of these. Construction work is well underway on the fifth phase of Bellway’s Fielders Quarter development at Barking Riverside – Horizons at Fielders Quarter – which will deliver 440 new one, two and three-bedroom homes. David said: “As part of our overarching Better with Bellway strategy we are committed to having a positive impact in the communities where we build and this initiative will help give local people the opportunity to access employment in construction. The participants will benefit from the real-life experience and expertise of the mentors and how to work alongside people of all ages. “To further address the skills shortage within the industry and to support the local community, Barking Riverside is also due to become home to an NHBC Multi-Skills Academy early next year, when the first cohort is due to start. “Both of these collaborations allow us to tap into the local talent and to give local people the chance of a career in the construction industry.” Garry Staines, CEO at Site Ready Solutions, said: “We’re delighted to be able to deliver training and jobs for local people to become skilled tradespeople. “We’re extremely grateful to Bellway for providing such a fantastic site-based environment for our learners to experience site conditions in a safe area before they begin work on site. “We’re also grateful for the collaboration of our partners at Graysons, Camtech and Brickjackets for their kind donations ensuring the tools and materials used for training mirror those they will be using on site. The skills shortage is acute and will only be addressed by us all working together to develop the next generation of skilled workers.” Further details about Site Ready Solutions can be found at https://sitereadysolutions.co.uk. For information about careers at Bellway go to https://www.bellwaycareers.co.uk/vacancies. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Britain’s multi-billion-pound construction pipeline is under threat, as new data reveals the industry must recruit 61,000 new workers annually* – putting the Government’s five-year investment plan in jeopardy – including Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes by 2030. According to CV-Library, the UK’s leading job for construction roles*, demand continues to grow, with job vacancies surging by 7.9% between January and July 2025, based on market wide data analysis. That being said, with a 14% decline in the workforce over the past five years, 15% of workers now over 60 (CITB data), growing concern as to “who will build Britain” exacerbates. To understand construction professionals’ sentiment of the industry, CV-Library conducted a survey of 625 workers that paints a stark picture of the workforce: Lee Biggins, Founder and CEO of CV-Library explains what the skills shortage could mean for Labour’s 1.5 million homes pledge: “Urgent action is needed to ensure the talent is there to build Britain. Labour’s pledge to deliver 1.5 million new homes by 2030 won’t be possible without the workforce to build it. Without confronting the growing construction talent gap head on, these ‘homes of the future’ won’t be built. The industry is under significant pressure and there needs to be urgent investment in skills if the Government is serious about delivering the UK’s major infrastructure goals. More needs to be done to retain existing workers and attract in new workers through apprenticeships and career changes. For those seeking a career change, the construction industry is one of the few sectors with big investment and a jobs boom. There are a wide range of roles in demand, with many of them being largely AI-proof, offering more job security.” Despite the challenges, CV-Library analysed job market data which shows a strong interest and demand in construction roles in 2025, especially in regions like the West Midlands and North West, where application volumes remain high. The 10 most in-demand job vacancies across construction include: Methodology Nationwide market data used to analyse CV-Library’s status as the UK’s leading job board for construction roles. Job trends: CV-Library analysed market-wide job posting data, comparing vacancy rates from January to July 2025 compared to the previous six months. Referenced Data: Labour demand forecasts were sourced from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). Survey: CV-Library conducted a survey of 625 construction workers in March 2025 to gather insights on workforce sentiment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With over 140,000 vacancies, the UK construction industry is facing a major skills shortage[2]. To help address this gap, leading housebuilders Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes has hosted a week long work experience at its Clipstone Park development in Bedfordshire, encouraging more young people to consider careers in construction. Leja, a Sixth Form student, took part in a work experience week at the development, where she shadowed several members of the Sales & Marketing team. During the week, she gained insight into client interactions, plot inspections and the general day-to-day role of sales advisors. The experience offered a practical look at what a career in the industry can involve, with guidance in the next steps of Leja’s career in the sector. As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting work experience programmes that help bridge the employment gap in construction, the housebuilders have previously offered work experience opportunities at Clipstone Park. In the past two years, local students from Vandyke Upper School and Aylesbury Grammar School had the chance to both work on-site at North Thames developments, as well as work at the housebuilder’s Head Office in Watford. All students gained valuable insights in the housebuilding industry, working across its Sustainability, Sales & Marketing and Legal teams to inspire future careers. Marc Woolfe, Sales & Marketing Director at Barrat David Wilson North Thames, said: “It was a delight to host Leja this summer at Clipstone Park and support her first steps into the world of housebuilding. We hope that Leja found the week useful and helped her to understand that a career in construction is much more than just bricks and mortar. Work experience opportunities like this are vital for young people as they give opportunities to inspire future talent and tackle the construction skills shortage head on.” Leja added: “My work experience week with the Sales & Marketing team at Clipstone Park has been vital in understanding what opportunities are available to me. The experience allowed me to learn more about the construction industry and the variety of roles available within it. I would like to thank the entire team at Clipstone Park for such an insightful week, and for all their support in guiding me in the beginnings of my career in construction.” Clipstone Park currently has a selection of three and four-bedroom homes, with prices starting from £370,000 for a three-bedroom home. To find out more about Barratt David Wilson North Thames or Clipstone Park, please visit www.barratthomes.co.uk/ https://www.dwh.co.uk or call 0333 355 8501. [2] https://www.placesforpeople.co.uk/pfp-thrive/insights-tools/the-uk-construction-skills-shortage/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Starting out in the world of work can be tough, especially when experience is hard to come by. That’s why VIVID offers apprenticeships that give people the chance to learn on the job, gain qualifications, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Four new electrician apprentices have recently joined the team, taking their first steps into the housing and trade sector and beginning a journey that could shape their future. The new apprentices will be working alongside experienced teams—learning the ropes, gaining qualifications, and building the confidence and skills they’ll need to succeed. It’s a meaningful opportunity to get hands-on experience in a skilled profession, and VIVID will be supporting them every step of the way. VIVID is growing its apprenticeship programme as part of a long-term approach to developing talent and strengthening its workforce. Apprenticeships offer a practical route into skilled roles, helping people build experience while contributing to the work that keeps homes and services running safely and smoothly. There are currently 19 apprentices working across different teams, and VIVID is looking to expand that number as it continues to invest in future skills. Duncan Short, Group Resources Director at VIVID, said: “We’re really pleased to welcome our new electrician apprentices. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn, grow, and build a career—and we’re proud to support people taking that first step. We’re looking forward to seeing them build their skills and confidence as they settle into life at VIVID.” Myles, one of VIVID’s new electrician apprentices, said “I’m really happy to be here at VIVID and I’m excited to learn new things every day in a hands on environment.” Mark Churcher, Head of Building Compliance at VIVID, said, “It’s great to welcome new apprentices on board. They’re joining a busy and skilled group who are always happy to share their knowledge. We’re here to make sure they get the experience and support they need to build confidence and start a strong career in the trade.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The looming changes to the UK Apprenticeship Levy are causing ripples across industries. For the construction sector, which often relies on Level 7 apprenticeships to address leadership skills gaps and attract younger talent, these changes are particularly significant. “With Levy funding for new Level 7 apprenticeship starters aged 22 and over ending in January 2026, construction firms need to act swiftly to capitalise on current funding opportunities before the December cut-off,” explains Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning, at Arden University. Here, Steven explores the potential impact of these changes, highlights the opportunities still available and proposes practical solutions to ensure construction companies can maximise the remaining funding to future-proof their workforce. Why do level 7 apprenticeships matter in construction? Level 7 apprenticeships, equivalent to postgraduate qualifications, have become an invaluable tool for the construction sector. They fill critical skills gaps, upskill existing talent and develop leaders who are equipped to tackle the industry’s challenges. For instance, the senior leader apprenticeship has helped construction organisations to address issues such as: However, with the government’s impending restrictions on Level 7 funding, the construction industry faces a narrowing window to maximise these benefits. Funding challenges and the narrow window of opportunity From January 2026, government Levy funding for Level 7 apprenticeships will no longer be available for new starters aged 22 and over, which is likely to cause a key pain point for those wanting to formally upskill more senior staff. However, there’s a silver lining for organisations that act quickly, as businesses can still utilise the Levy funding for new level 7 learners, as long as they’re enrolled before the 31 December deadline. This urgency presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Left unchecked, skills gaps and leadership deficits may exacerbate already critical workforce shortages, but organisations that proactively plan can not only mitigate these risks but also strengthen their position for the future. To make the most of the remaining Level 7 funding, construction firms should consider these four key actions: 1. Audit skills needs and workforce requirements Conduct a thorough assessment of the current workforce to identify skills gaps and forecast future needs. For example, consider areas like leadership and digital transformation, where advanced training will be essential. Use this information to prioritise staff who are ready to enrol in Level 7 apprenticeships while funding is still available. 2. Accelerate recruitment for cohorts With the December cut-off fast approaching, ramping up recruitment efforts for apprenticeships is crucial. Partnering with education providers now can help to ensure smoother enrolment processes. 3. Focus on age-eligible candidates With the age cap for funding set to change, targeting talent before the end of the year, who will be ineligible to access funding from 2026, makes strategic sense. Prioritise candidates aged 22 and over for enrolment this year, ensuring that funding supports this group before eligibility shifts. 4. Explore Level 6 apprenticeships as alternatives For organisations where Level 7 funding may no longer be feasible from 2026 due to budget restrictions, Level 6 apprenticeships remain a valuable alternative. Equivalent to degree-level qualifications, these programmes still deliver high-quality training while addressing workforce diversity and retention goals. Addressing broader apprenticeship challenges in construction While the funding restrictions may signal a shift in apprenticeship opportunities, they also highlight the importance of future-proofing workforce development strategies. Employers committed to investing in apprenticeships can take steps such as: Proactively adopting these strategies can ensure that construction businesses maintain access to vital skills and leadership development in the years ahead. The clock is ticking for construction businesses to make the most of current Level 7 apprenticeship funding. Acting decisively over the next few months can help secure the training and leadership development necessary to address workforce challenges and prepare for future demands. “While the government’s decision to restrict funding may create some obstacles, it also presents an opportunity for organisations to demonstrate resilience and adaptability,” advises Steven. “By planning strategically and taking immediate steps to optimise remaining resources, the construction sector can continue to build the skilled and diverse workforce it needs to thrive. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. Begin your workforce audit, accelerate apprentice recruitment and explore alternative opportunities today to maximise the value of your Apprenticeship Levy funding.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new programme is helping offenders to build a new life – and a career in construction – once they are released from prison. Industry-approved health and safety training is being offered by PLIAS Resettlement and funded by Ealing Council. It is specifically for borough residents who are currently serving a prison sentence in HMP Wormwood Scrubs. The scheme is part of the council’s commitment to invest £1million to train and support those excluded from the jobs market, with a particular focus on groups like ex-offenders who face barriers to employment. It aims to ensure that they can get a second chance and fill a useful role in society, in an industry which continues to face a notable labour shortage. Based in Park Royal, PLIAS Resettlement is a criminal justice charity that helps people with criminal records get their lives back on track. As part of the programme, PLIAS offers serving prisoners with help to prepare for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card exam. This is an important step to finding a well-paid job in construction. Since starting work with Ealing Council in October 2024, more than 80 people have taken the course. Follow-up “through the gate” support is provided on release to ensure a smooth transition from in custody back into the community. Tom Chandler is the PLIAS resettlement director. He said: “We visit the prison every month. We target prisoners who are due for release within the next 3 months, as they need more timely help. We explain what we are doing and how it can benefit them. If they are interested in a career in construction, we put them forward for our training programme. We usually have 8-10 people attending per course.” The programme aims to help people to make a successful transition into the community and get them ready for work. He added: “Once people get released, we invite them to our fully equipped IT centre which they can come to as many times as they want. We want them to successfully pass their CSCS test and move into employment, so they get unlimited practice and revision materials. We know that people who are employed in jobs with prospects are less likely to re-offend. “While people are preparing for the test, we help them with writing their CV, interview techniques, and how best to disclose a criminal conviction to an employer.” After people get their CSCS card, Ealing Council’s construction skills advisor is helping them to find work on construction sites in the borough. The CSCS card is a physical card and proof that a construction worker has the required training, qualifications, and knowledge of health and safety to work on a UK construction site safely. The cost of the health and safety training, CSCS preparation and test is included in the programme. Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes said: “Creating opportunities for people in prison is helping us reach our ambition of supporting 2,000 residents with the toughest barriers to employment. “Once they have paid their debt to society, it is vital that we offer ex-offenders the help they need to become contributing members of society. Our lives don’t always follow a straight line, and everyone should have an equal chance to find a good job. That’s why it is important that we, as a council, provide opportunities and funding to help residents overcome obstacles which would otherwise stand in the way of their route to a good, well-paid job.” Help with training and employment can be found on the council’s website. If you are interested in a career in construction, email workealing@ealing.gov.uk to learn about vacancies and training programmes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As construction projects grow more complex and safety standards tighten, PERI UK’s field services manager Terry Hall is on a mission to professionalise industrial training. Leading temporary works training programmes, including the only accredited formwork training courses in the UK, he is enhancing the skills – and confidence – needed to build better. Modern construction demands towering skyscrapers rise from the ground with inch-perfect precision – driven by efficiency, productivity, and sustainability, making the need for competent, safety-conscious operatives ever greater. Improving site safety and operational efficiency in the UK’s system formwork and scaffolding sectors is Terry Hall’s top priority. Terry is a field services manager at PERI UK, providing accredited, hands-on training and support to both novice and experienced professionals. “PERI UK is the only company currently offering accredited formwork training of this kind,” Terry states. “And it’s long overdue that the industry catches up.” The man behind the mission With over three decades of experience in formwork carpentry, supervision, and instruction, Terry embodies a blend of deep practical knowledge and a strong commitment to improving industry practices. His journey from apprentice carpenter to a twice-nominated CONSTRUCT Unsung Hero spearheading PERI’s accredited training programme reveals both a dedication to systemic safety and a sharp understanding of the risks involved in formwork and scaffolding. Terry’s goal is to ensure that only individuals with a recognised, formal qualification are authorised to erect temporary works systems. This commitment is reflected in his efforts to introduce clear competency measures in the areas of formwork and falsework. He believes that by introducing mandatory, regulated training, the industry can make meaningful strides in reducing serious accidents and injuries. “There’s no other construction activity where you can use specialist equipment without any formal training,” says Terry. “Electricians can’t work without qualifications, and site operatives shouldn’t use complex, multi-tonne climbing systems for formwork and scaffolding without ever being shown the right way to do it. It’s dangerous.” Bridging the industry’s skills gap PERI UK’s training programme was developed in response to this challenge. PERI UK is now an approved centre by the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) for formwork and has accreditation from the CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) for system scaffolding. PERI UK offers bespoke formwork and falsework training, accredited by UK industry body AIM, according to necessity and related to working at height, plus scaffolding courses from basic erector to advanced scaffolder and inspection. The courses are delivered by a team of experts and can be carried out at any PERI UK depot, PERI’s Brentwood training facility, or other designated location. Successful participants receive certification from an awarding body and have the qualification linked to their CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card, providing instant proof of competence on-site. “When a site manager scans your CSCS card, they can see immediately that you’ve had proper training,” explains Terry. Straight from the classroom Terry believes training should be grounded in real-world experience and delivers all of his courses with this approach. Having worked hands-on with PERI’s systems as a site supervisor for five years before stepping into his managerial role, he understands the challenges that only practical experience can reveal. “I always assume learners have never used the systems before,” Terry says. “Some have, some haven’t, but I treat every session as a blank slate to make sure nothing is missed.” Training figures continue to rise each year, with 2024 marking a record high for PERI UK, up 50% from the previous year. In total, Terry has trained nearly 600 individuals in his career, but the impact goes beyond numbers: “The most rewarding thing is when someone who’s been in the industry for years comes up to me after a course and says, ‘I never knew that, thank you.’ That’s when I know we’re making a difference.” A typical course spans a minimum of two days with additional tailored support available on request. PERI’s courses blend hands-on instruction with theory-based workbooks. With new systems constantly being introduced, Terry also regularly trains alongside designers and engineers from PERI’s global teams to remain ahead of industry evolution, and is consistently involved in meetings held by CONSTRUCT, the organisation which acts as an interface between member contractors, clients and suppliers to improve safety and efficiency and identify best practice and buildability. PERI’s training is increasingly being built into projects from the outset. As Terry explains, major contractors are beginning to require proof of competence before permitting operatives on high-risk tasks such as climbing formwork assembly. “On many projects PERI is involved in, training is embedded into the package,” Terry explains. “We’re supplying the equipment, the drawings, the supervision, and the accredited training. That gives our client confidence that everyone knows what they’re doing and why.” Driving change, one trainee at a time While PERI advocates for wider industry adoption of accredited formwork training, it currently remains the only provider offering this level of formal instruction. In an industry that can be slow on the uptake, Terry and PERI are proving that transformation doesn’t always begin at the top. Sometimes, it starts with someone on the ground, quietly raising the bar until the rest of the industry has no choice but to catch up. Beyond the manuals and lifting diagrams, Terry sees each session as a way to embed safer habits across the industry. Whether teaching apprentices or experienced operatives on cutting-edge hydraulic systems, each training session is a chance to build safer habits. “PERI UK is leading the way, but we shouldn’t be the only ones,” says Terry. “This kind of training needs to become mandatory across the board.” “But it’s not about pointing fingers,” he adds. “It’s about keeping sites and people safe.” And the industry is listening. Several contractors have gone from post-incident training to proactive upskilling across their workforce. The long-term benefits speak for themselves: fewer accidents, more efficient builds, and improved reputation. Looking ahead As construction projects become more complex, Terry and the PERI training team’s role evolves. They are currently involved in training