Bridging the skills gap
The skills gap in the UK construction industry is at risk of hindering its recovery, as there are not enough workers with specialist skills to meet the growing demand, according to Health & Safety Training (HST).
In response, the company, which is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, is altering the type of training it delivers. Alongside traditional courses, HST has recently introduced a series of apprenticeships that will combine classroom and practical industry training, as well as functional skills in subjects such as maths and English.
Initially, the instructors will ‘front-load’ apprentices with knowledge to underpin their learning before they begin their work placement. Instructors will then visit them on-site to reinforce their training, monitor their progression and assess their work.
HST are meeting with businesses to discuss their needs, and can either recruit new apprentices to suit their demand, or train existing staff to bridge the skills gap within their company.
Health & Safety Matters September 2025
