Would you encourage your kids to join the trade?

​​​​​​​Peter Roberts and Dan Brown join Clive Holland to discuss how they are motivating their children to pursue careers in the trades and their thoughts on the future of construction education

Would you want your kids to study a construction course and join the trade? If not, why, asks Clive Holland as he chats with Peter Roberts from Brickwork Tutors Toolbox and Dan Brown from the Job & Knock Podcast. 

Dan reveals that a few months ago, he was against the idea of them choosing a career in the construction industry due to a lack of jobs and poor pay, but his views have changed.

"I hope my children can choose careers they are passionate about and earn well. If one can enjoy one's job, it's not work but a pleasant experience. The resurgence of demand in the trade shows that a career in the industry might be a better option for youngsters than it is now." 

Clive also reads messages sent to the show. Most tradies say they would encourage their children to pick a career in the trades.

Peter, a bricklayer, is also a trained educator with independent training providers. Since the lockdown, he has been sharing resources to support people who aspire to become bricklayers. 

"There is no shortage of young people wanting to access the trades. Further education colleges and independent training providers are experiencing a phenomenal interest from young people. 

"Whether or not we can service that demand and ensure a positive outcome is a question. Does it become a feasible and sustainable opportunity within the construction industry? That's where the partnership across FAITPs and industry comes into the fore," he states. 

He also adds that a wide range of programmes and different provisions are available for newcomers to the trade. "From the usual full diplomas to technical stuff, academics, T-Levels, and the apprenticeships, there are many choices out there." 

Listen to the full podcast here.