NHBC Invest Heavily in New Multi Skill Training Hubs to Address and Improve Industry Skills Shortage

The National House Building Council (NHBC) has launched a transformative £100 million investment to develop a network of multi-skills training hubs aimed at addressing the growing skills shortage in the UK’s house-building sector. This initiative tackles workforce gaps by equipping workers with a wide range of competencies critical for modern construction, particularly as demand for new homes continues to rise.

HANDS-ON TRAINING FOR REAL-WORLD IMPACT

These training hubs provide practical, immersive education in purpose-built environments. Apprentices and trainees gain hands-on experience, with initial programmes focusing on essential skills such as bricklaying. This approach enables participants to transition seamlessly into active construction roles, fostering a stronger and more efficient workforce while supporting broader goals of enhanced productivity and sustainability.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF UK HOUSE BUILDING

Roger Morton, Director of Change and Training Hubs at NHBC, emphasised the initiative’s transformative potential, stating that the hubs will be “shaping the future of UK house building.” Morton explained that the programme is designed to not only address the current workforce shortage but also prepare future professionals for an evolving industry. By offering cutting-edge, hands-on training, the hubs will enhance industry standards, improve skill levels, and help drive innovation in construction practices.

MEETING GROWING WORKFORCE DEMANDS

The initiative aligns with forecasts by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), which estimate that over 250,000 additional construction workers will be required by 2028 to support growth in private housing, infrastructure, and repair sectors. Without interventions like NHBC’s hubs, the skills gap could hinder the industry’s ability to meet these demands​.

SUPPORTING BROADER GOVERNMENT GOALS & DRIVING INNOVATION IN TRAINING

NHBC’s training hubs complement government initiatives like the “Build Back Better” campaign, which seeks to boost economic recovery and create sustainable employment. The hubs integrate advanced construction methods and emerging technologies into their programmes, preparing trainees for both current industry needs and future trends in sustainable and modern building techniques.

ENSURING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR THE INDUSTRY

This investment underscores NHBC’s commitment to tackling the construction sector’s most pressing challenges, including the urgent need for a skilled workforce. By fostering talent, promoting innovation, and modernising training approaches, the hubs are poised to play a pivotal role in building the UK’s housing and infrastructure of the future.

Sources

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Granite Building Warranties are specialist independent brokers of building warranties for the construction industry.  For more information, please contact Ed or Kelly on 01284 365345 or email ed@granitebw.co.uk / kelly@granitebw.co.uk.