Britain facing construction skills shortage as West Suffolk students highlight career pathways
The Department of Education says there's a growing skill shortage
Britain could need up to one million additional construction workers by 2032, according to the Department for Education, amid warnings of a growing skills shortage across the sector.
New research suggests there are currently more than 35,000 unfilled construction vacancies in the UK, with many roles left empty due to a lack of qualified workers. While 93 per cent of adults say construction is vital to delivering homes, schools and hospitals, employer investment in training has fallen over the past decade.
As part of a national campaign to recruit and train 60,000 skilled professionals, students and educators from across the country are being highlighted, including case studies from West Suffolk.
One of those is Kaira Hazelton, 18, a Design, Surveying and Planning alumna from West Suffolk College, who is now working in the industry while studying for a Higher National Certificate.
First-hand experience
Ms Hazelton said she chose a T Level after being advised it would suit her practical learning style.
“I chose a T Level because a friend of mine recommended it to me due to the fact, I am more of a practical learner over sitting in a classroom,” she said.
She said the course helped shape her route into construction by combining classroom learning with work experience, which helped her gain knowledge on the site.
She's currently working with Breheny Civil Engineering and has been involved in the Sizewell C project. She said taking part in a major national development had given her valuable insight into the industry.
"I have learned many different things,” she said. “It’s a great experience to have taken part in a major national development at such a young age. It also gave me an insight into how these big projects work and watched the project develop.”
Progression
She added that employer support had been key to her confidence and progression.
“At the moment, Breheny Civil Engineering gives me the confidence to offer long-term progression in my career as they constantly help me out when needed and challenge me with the work I’m given,” she said.
Ms Hazelton has been offered a full-time job alongside employer-funded study at university, working towards her HNC qualification. She told us she's very grateful for this opportunity and hopes to progress to a senior leadership role in the future.
“My ambition is to become a director one day in the construction industry,” she said. “I am confident the industry can help me progress and reach my goals in the future.”
Ms Hazelton also encouraged more women to consider careers in construction, saying it should not be seen as a male-dominated sector.
“Construction isn’t always seen as an obvious career choice for women,” she said. “However, for women considering going into the construction industry, do it. I couldn’t recommend it any more than I do now.”
More on the findings
The Department for Education campaign also aims to encourage experienced tradespeople into Further Education teaching, alongside attracting young people into construction careers. The government has pledged to train 60,000 construction professionals as part of its wider plans to support housing and infrastructure delivery.
Phil Eves, Employment and Skills Coordinator at BAM Construct UK, is among those available to discuss the skills gap and the need for increased training and recruitment across the industry.
The campaign also highlights some of the UK’s most recognisable buildings, including Battersea Power Station, Blackpool Tower and the Gherkin, as part of efforts to inspire the next generation of construction workers.