Home / Education / Construction Skills Gap? New Courses Offer Hope
Construction Skills Gap? New Courses Offer Hope
24 May
Summary
- Over £5 million allocated for new trade courses in South West colleges.
- New qualifications aim to support 16-year-olds needing GCSE assistance.
- Funding targets hands-on industry experience for students to combat shortages.
A significant investment of over £5 million has been announced for colleges in the South West, aiming to address the critical skills shortage within the construction industry. This funding will be instrumental in developing new trade courses and apprenticeships, providing students with crucial hands-on experience.
Mark Wardle, executive principal of Cornwall College Group, emphasized that this initiative is designed to bridge the gap between student interest and industry demand. "We need to generate opportunities for them to access the industry so they can make informed choices," he stated. Currently, despite a substantial number of construction students, there remains an "acute shortage in all trades" across Cornwall, including electricians, plumbers, and building designers.
The new funding also includes two qualifications for 16-year-olds requiring additional GCSE support. Wardle highlighted the importance of real-life experience, noting that while colleges offer excellent simulated environments, practical exposure is essential for students' development and future careers. The college is collaborating with Cornwall Council to secure placements and connect students with employers to help meet the region's housing and infrastructure targets.
