Covid-19: CITB chief exec update - 9 December 2020

Good afternoon, 

Today I’d like to highlight a move to digital-only certificates for Site Safety Plus; new research on how further education learners can access construction jobs; and information on Brexit preparedness. 

Site Safety Plus (SSP) digital certificates 

From the beginning of this week, delegates will receive digital only copies of all SSP certificates to evidence achievement. It will also help reduce the risk of learners incurring additional costs for lost certificate replacements as they will be accessible online.  

We’ve already seen people posting their digital certificates on LinkedIn and other social media having taken our free Covid-19 course, evidencing continuing professional development and strengthening their skills in responding to the ongoing pandemic. We believe that the new digital certificates will be a positive tool to celebrate your teams’ and your business’s success. 

Supporting you to bring new learners into construction jobs 

Did you know that only two out of five learners on construction-related further education (FE) courses join the industry? 

We investigated why this is, and potential solutions, in a new report, Learning to Earning, published last week. Our researchers spoke with employers, learners and college providers to find out the barriers to entry and what could be done about it. 

The report revealed very different perceptions of college courses. For example, many employers see FE courses as an alternative to apprenticeships, whereas learners often see them as a route to one.  

It’s clear that helping learners become more aware of what the industry is like, and giving them more experience of it, is part of the solution. That’s why we’re working with industry and government to design a new Construction Traineeship for England to ensure learners have the skills needed to move onto an apprenticeship or employment.  

In Wales, we have been involved in the development of new qualifications to address issues with existing FE routes. Hundreds of existing qualifications are being simplified into eight new ones with better progression routes and streamlined assessments.  

In Scotland the Pathways into Apprenticeships initiative has been introduced, offering 36-week construction training for young people who are out of work. Around 120 opportunities are expected to be available from early next year. 

Getting ready for Brexit 

As the Brexit transition time runs out, it is important to be aware of new rules for businesses coming into place from 1 January 2021 and ensure you and your business are prepared for the changes ahead. There are number of online resources available to help you with this including:  

• Gov.uk – the Government’s Brexit transition period website for businesses and citizens 
• Points-based immigration system – this Government website provides the latest information if you are thinking of hiring from the EU next year  
• The Construction Leadership Council – the CLC provides guidance and information to help the construction industry maintain business continuity at the end of the transition period.  

A reminder…  

We will now be offering individual conversations virtually for any employers who would like a meeting with their local CITB Advisor. Bookings can be made through our Local Events page. Our group sessions will also continue, following their initial success. 

CITB’s COVID-19 Urgent Messages page is refreshed regularly 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.   

Best wishes and stay safe everyone, 

Sarah Beale
Chief Executive