This is up from 900 last year 鈥� a 70% increase.
Employers from the UK Contractors Group, Home Builders Federation and Major Home Builders Group have collectively allocated training budgets for 1,560 full time apprentices in their business plans for this year to prepare for an increase in workforce demand expected when the market picks up towards the end of 2013.
CITB-ConstructionSkills director of employer services Mike Bialyj said: 鈥淭he outlook for apprenticeship recruitment in 2012 is looking much healthier than last year鈥檚 figures. As a managing agency, our own recruitment numbers are on the rise but these figures from the major employer groups are also encouraging. It鈥檚 clear that employers are carefully planning their 2013/14 workforce now to make sure that they have the skills and talent at the ready to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise.鈥�
UKCG director Stephen Ratcliffe said: 鈥淲ith business conditions remaining difficult, it鈥檚 great to see firms on the front-foot and prioritising investment in apprenticeships and talent development. The premium in construction is on the quality of apprenticeship programmes. These additional placements are welcome opportunities for young people to develop the depth of skills they need to secure a long term sustainable career.鈥�
Kier Group plans to take on at least 145 apprentices this year. Head of new entrants Ian Dickerson said: 鈥淲e have a strong track record of investing in training and supporting apprenticeship programmes and are pleased to announce that this is to continue and expand into 2012. Kier has benefitted greatly from supporting and investing in apprentices. Many of our skilled and valued employees have come into the industry via this route, and we want to continue to source and develop new entrants in this way.鈥�
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