Marvin OnumonuThe Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has launched its 2025/26 business plan, outlining steps it will take to help the construction industry find, train and keep skilled workers.
The plan supports CITB’s strategic plan for 2025 to 2029, which was developed after consultation with construction employers, training providers and governments.
It aims to help addresses skills and training challenges expected in 2025/26.
The CITB’s priorities are getting more trained people into construction, making quality training available when and where needed, and improving the current workforce’s skills.
CITB said it will keep apprenticeship grants and extend the ‘Into Work’ grant, offering up to £1,500 for employers to help people move from education to work.
Travel to train grants will continue, covering accommodation and travel for learners and employers.
Additionally, the entrant support team will expand, helping employers with work placements and recruitment.
CITB will also fund more than 40,000 industry placements each year for level 2 and level 3 learners to complete qualifications like NVQs, BTECs, T Levels and apprenticeships.
Furthermore, the CITB plans to set up an approved training provider network to support trainers and assessors with ongoing professional development.
The organisation will also develop industry-designed competence frameworks with additional routes to competence on offer.
CITB will also work with UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments to develop training and skills systems, with a focus on supporting further education colleges and construction training.
CITB confirmed that it will invest more than £15m in the National Construction College to grow training across its three sites.
This funding aims to boost apprenticeship and commercial training, with an emphasis on sustainability and improving learner experience.
Tim Balcon, chief executive at CITB, said: “The success of the British construction industry impacts everyone, and its vital construction employers are well supported with their training and skills needs.
“To thrive, the industry needs the right skills at the right time. Our Strategic Plan 2025-29, which we launched earlier this year, sets out how CITB will support employers to recruit, train, and retain the workforce they need, now and in the future.
“This Business Plan brings that strategy to life, outlining the practical steps we will take to support employers.”
Balcon added: “I am looking forward to delivering this Business Plan, marking the first year of our Strategic Plan, and supporting more employers and workers in gaining the skills they need to drive Britain’s built environment forward.”
