The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has started an innovative construction training academy aimed at addressing the critical skills shortage and getting more people into working in the industry.
In partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College, the Wanstead-based academy offers a 12-month pilot scheme designed to equip young people with practical, hands-on construction skills, ensuring learners are site-ready from their first day on the job.
With 17,000 additional construction workers needed across greater London, the academy directly responds to urgent industry demands. The curriculum has been developed with input from FMB members and industry professionals to ensure training aligns with sector requirements.
The programme is designed to work with 20 students aged 16-19, with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The cohort will comprise 20% female students, 10% with educational and health care plans, and 40% from ethnic minority groups.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: "The construction industry is facing an unprecedented skills shortage with too few employers willing to offer apprenticeships to young people. The newly created Build Academy sets out to address this problem with a bold new approach to training which involves creating site ready students for employers to take on as apprentices. By partnering with CITB and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College, the FMB is creating a pipeline of skilled workers who are ready to contribute from day one. This is exactly the kind of innovative thinking our industry needs."
Annie Summun, Chair of the FMB Training Group and National Board Representative for London, said: "Training the next generation is not just important, it's essential for the survival of our industry. This academy demonstrates our commitment to creating real opportunities for young people while ensuring our members have access to the skilled workforce they desperately need. The hands-on, multi-trade approach is exactly what small builders have been asking for."
Tom Peardon, FMB London Director, added: "London's construction industry needs skilled workers now more than ever. This partnership brings together the best of what the FMB, CITB, and Shooters Hill College can offer. We're not just training people, we're building careers and strengthening the entire construction sector across the capital and I am incredibly proud of what the students have achieved so far."
David Gutierrez, FMB London President, said: "I'm very enthusiastic about this CITB-funded project with Shooters Hill College. It's about creating opportunity and ensuring young people get the practical experience they need to succeed in construction. Under my leadership, I want the London Board to be proactive in supporting initiatives like this that make a real difference to our industry."
