New research from the Department for Education (DfE) shows that 93% of adults agree that construction is vital to improving life in England
Further reflecting the public opinion on construction, 66% agree that inspiring more young people to join the industry is essential.
The research also says that over half of respondents say that teachers with industry-experience will be key to closing the skills gap.
The research accompanies the launch of a new campaign
The launch of the Built to Inspire campaign, delivered by Teach in Further Education, and Skills for Life, is accompanied by the revealing of two new murals in London and Manchester.
The campaign’s ultimate goal is to promote and expedite recruitment and quality training of construction workers in the UK, and therefore is aimed at young people and career changers, as well as those providing further education training and employers offering apprenticeships.
Rosa Wells, chair of the National Network Institutes of Technology and executive dean for Sustainable Construction at University College Birmingham, said: “Growing up, I was always fascinated by how things were made – the innovation, the precision, and the incredible skill behind it all. That passion led me into a career in manufacturing, where I collaborated with talented tradespeople across the sector.
“I reached a point where I wanted to give back and help shape the future of the industry I love. Teaching in Further Education gave me that opportunity. It’s not just about passing on technical knowledge; it’s about inspiring confidence, showing learners what’s possible, and preparing them for careers that sustain and grow our sector.”
“A monumental challenge”
Writing for PBC Today in August last year, CIOB head of policy and public affairs David Barnes examined and discussed the government’s drive in tackling construction skill shortages.
David wrote: “Over the past year, voices across the construction sector have increasingly urged the government to take meaningful action to address the construction skills gap. In recent months, it seems this feedback has finally been taken on board.
“The UK government has made a wave of recent announcements aimed at tackling the chronic shortage of skilled workers in construction. These announcements mark one of the most concerted attempts in years to address this challenge, so it is a suitable time to take stock and evaluate what the government’s plans are for construction skills.
“The government has also announced it will be focusing on promoting construction careers as a part of its broader mission to get unemployed people into work. This will involve improving advice related to construction careers delivered by job centres and funding a number of work experience placements for those looking to get into work.”
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