Training boost for constructors

The scheme will be run by the Construction Industry Training Board and housing technology consultant the Palmer Partnership and will include training for all the major construction techniques including timber frame, concrete, steel, SIPs and brick and block.

The scheme got the go-ahead after the Construction Industry Training Board and housing technology consultant the Palmer Partnership won a grant from the DETR for £626 000. The DETR recognises in particular the need to train prefabrication workers. Simon Palmer, director at the Palmer Partnership estimates that 5000-7000 workers will need to be trained in prefabrication skills, such as steel and timber erection, to avoid future shortages.

Three types of training programmes will be piloted for 1000 workers at a national training centre. Test rigs will be constructed at the centre, which will be at the Zethus Centre in Erith or the CITB's Bircham Newton site. Top-up skills courses will retrain existing workers on residential and weekend courses (from October), while certified and NVQ courses will provide more intensive training (from next summer).