FMB launches construction training academy to tackle workforce shortages

​​​​​​​The Wanstead-based academy will offer a 12-month pilot scheme designed to equip young people with practical, hands-on construction skills

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has launched a construction training academy aimed at addressing the critical skills shortage and attracting more people to the industry.

In partnership with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College, the Wanstead-based academy offers a 12-month pilot scheme designed to equip young people with practical, hands-on construction skills, ensuring learners are site-ready from their first day on the job.  

With 17,000 additional construction workers needed across Greater London, the academy directly responds to urgent industry demands.

The curriculum has been developed with input from FMB members and industry professionals to ensure training aligns with sector requirements. 

The programme is designed to work with 20 students aged 16-19, with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The cohort will comprise 20% female students, 10% with educational and health care plans, and 40% from ethnic minority groups. 

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said:  "The construction industry is facing an unprecedented skills shortage with too few employers willing to offer apprenticeships to young people.

“The newly created Build Academy sets out to address this problem with a bold new approach to training, which involves creating site-ready students for employers to take on as apprentices.

“By partnering with CITB and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College, the FMB is creating a pipeline of skilled workers who are ready to contribute from day one. This is exactly the innovative thinking our industry needs."