Government launches network of Technical Excellence Colleges to support construction jobs

More than 40,000 future builders, bricklayers, electricians, carpenters and plumbers will be trained at a new network of Technical Excellence Colleges (TECs) unveiled by the Government.

The specialist colleges, located in every region of England, are intended to deliver the skilled workforce needed to accelerate the construction of new homes, schools and hospitals.

Ministers said the move will help realise “every Brit’s dream” of home ownership while creating well-paid, high-skilled jobs for British workers.

Backed by £100m of government investment, the scheme supports the commitment to build 1.5 million homes as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

The announcement comes amid Office for National Statistics data showing around 35,000 vacancies in the construction sector.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “We need skilled workers to deliver the homes, schools and hospitals that communities across the country are crying out for, and today’s announcement underlines our commitment to the next generation of homegrown talent. Construction Technical Excellence Colleges will enable us to invest in people and give them the skills they need to break down barriers to opportunity in an industry which is essential to delivering growth through our Plan for Change.”

The new colleges are expected to train 40,000 learners by 2029, supporting both young apprentices and experienced tradespeople seeking to upskill for better-paid jobs.

A recent survey found that the proportion of construction firms providing training has fallen from 57% in 2011 to 49% in 2024, coinciding with an increasing reliance on migrant labour.