To encourage a wider range of people to work and stay in our industry, we need more tailored apprenticeship standards in the fenestration industry, according to Samantha Tinker, director of business and quality for Glass and Fenestration Training Solutions (GFTS), a training centre and academy site for Building Our Skills.
The Education and Skills Funding Agency subsidises training costs for apprenticeships through training providers like GFTS, by up to 100% of the cost for 16 to 18 year olds and up to 95% for candidates who are 19 or older.
Companies with a wage bill in excess of £3m pay into the Apprenticeship Levy, to cover the costs of training their apprentices. Smaller employers do not pay the levy, they pay a maximum contribution of 5% and the rest is covered by the government.
“In some instances, and depending on eligibility, grants may also be available to employers that take on apprentices in the 16 to 18 age bracket,” said Samantha. “Many small companies are not aware of this financial support, so do talk to us about it and call our head office: 01208 813 568.
“Currently, there are too few apprenticeship standards available in the fenestration industry. It’s our view, here at GFTS, that we need more apprenticeship standards that are specific to the different skills sets in this industry.
“For example, a surveying apprenticeship tailored to the fenestration industry would be a good addition, as would one for glazing and glass processing. There are so many roles.
“Fabricating and installing are only two aspects of an industry that offers a huge breadth of career paths. The range of apprenticeship standards should reflect that. Existing apprenticeship standards are currently under review, and hopefully they will be adapted to encourage more uptake.
“But employers in the glass processing and glazing sectors are urgently needed to support the trailblazer groups in designing a broader range of standards that are more suitable for a greater number of employers and learners.”
This is a shortened version of an article from GGP Magazine. To read the full version, in the August 2023 edition of GGP, click here.
