Covid-19: CITB chief exec update – 21 May 2020

Good afternoon,

I hope you’re having a good week. Today’s email includes news on the latest number of Test Centres to re-open in England; a new Buildathon competition winner; and a refresh on CITB’s support measures for industry.

Test Centres

In my update last week it was announced that CITB will begin to re-establish the Health, Safety and Environment testing operations in England. To date 115 out of a possible 130 Pearson Professional Centres in England have re-opened. Our Internet Test Centre network is also being phased back on a one-by-one basis, once centres have confirmed the implementation of all relevant measures. We currently have 54 that are operational. Information and updates on test delivery can be found here.

Update on recent Support Measures

Site Safety Plus

We have had a 50% increase in the amount of Site Safety Plus training centres now delivering remote learning since our last update – 65 in total. One of those centres being our own National Construction College which is now delivering the Health and Safety Awareness course. For a full list of Site Safety Plus training centres delivering remotely use the course locator tool.

Grants

CITB announced last month that it would pay grants for second and third year apprentices in advance. Since then over £3.3m has been paid to 1,981 employers, supporting 3,691 apprentices. Having extended the Advanced Grant support to Higher Level Apprenticeships, over £217k has been paid to 74 employers to support 344 apprentices since then.

Skills and Training Fund

The new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on April 1. To date we have received 352 applications. To apply for funding, click here.

Buildathon

Using resources previously produced, we’re pleased to see future generations developing their interest in the industry through the Minecraft Buildathon competitions. The winner of the second Buildathon round in Wales has been announced. The construction competition for children aged 5-12 continues to draw talent, receiving a number of high quality entries. Congratulations to Zac Allsopp, whose entry was full of imagination. The exceptional detail and level of accuracy throughout also captured the judge’s attention. For more information and to register your interest, click here.

Apprentices

Over 10,800 apprentices have been contacted by our Apprenticeship Team to date to make them aware of the support available. We have found that numbers on site are starting to pick back up as apprentices return to work from furlough. We will continue to support apprentices through this time and provide guidance where needed. If you require any assistance please email us at: apprenticeships.covid19@citb.co.uk

CITB’s COVID-19 Urgent Messages page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.

You can also read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.

Finally, I would like to wish you, your colleagues and family a lovely bank holiday weekend.

Kind wishes

Sarah Beale
Chief Executive