The Institute of Carpenters welcomes the government’s announcement of over £600 million in funding to train up to 60,000 new construction workers by 2029. This significant investment addresses urgent skills shortages across the sector and represents a positive step forward for the future of our industry.
With the UK facing a shortfall of skilled tradespeople, including carpenters, joiners, and woodworkers, this initiative comes at a vital time.
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics confirms that the construction sector is experiencing the highest proportion of hard-to-fill vacancies of any industry. Employers report that over half of all job openings are left unfilled due to a lack of appropriate skills. The IOC has long advocated for greater investment in practical training and industry-led pathways, and we’re encouraged to see this support materialise through a range of targeted initiatives.
Among the key measures announced:
-
Ten new Technical Excellence Colleges, supported by £100 million in new funding
-
An expanded Skills Bootcamps programme, with £100 million to support new entrants and upskill workers already in the industry
-
£165 million in additional college funding to increase the delivery of construction-related training
-
New Foundation Apprenticeships, launching in August 2025, supported by £40 million and backed by a £2,000 employer incentive per apprentice
-
Over 40,000 industry placements annually for Level 2 and Level 3 learners, NVQs, BTECs, T-levels, and apprenticeships, supported by £132 million from the government and CITB
-
Enhanced support for SMEs, with CITB’s NEST programme doubling in size to aid recruitment and retention of apprentices
-
A new £80 million capital fund for employers to design bespoke, demand-led training
-
Creation of a new Construction Skills Mission Board, co-chaired by government and industry, to provide strategic direction and drive delivery
These reforms aim to not only plug immediate gaps but also create sustainable career pathways that prepare learners for long-term success in the construction sector. The introduction of foundation apprenticeships and employer-led training solutions directly supports the IOC’s commitment to competency, skills development, and raising standards across carpentry, joinery, and the wider wood trades.
This investment is also set to bolster efforts to deliver on the government’s ambition to build 1.5 million new homes and transform UK infrastructure. None of this is possible without a well-trained, competent workforce—something the IOC has consistently highlighted through initiatives like our Timber Industry College Hubs and Mentoring Champions programme.
As always, the Institute of Carpenters stands ready to support and collaborate with government, colleges, employers, and training providers to ensure the successful implementation of these programmes. We look forward to seeing this commitment translate into real opportunities for our members, our learners, and the future of the woodworking professions.