Recognising an immediate need to understand the challenges facing the sector, CITB Scotland, along with construction stakeholders and employers, have set up the Scottish Construction Modern Apprenticeship Task Force to understand what support employers need to prioritise the retention of apprentices, and secure the future of the MA programme in Scotland.

The group wants to learn from employers what the current challenges are, and their plans to take on apprentices, to directly inform any support needed. Employers are being asked to make their voice heard and take part in the simple, five-minute survey.

Ian Rogers, chair of the Scottish Construction Modern Apprenticeship Task Force, said: “I welcome the establishment of this group by CITB. It is needed and is already doing good work. It is so important that it is utilised to ensure the future success of construction apprenticeships in Scotland.

“We welcome feedback from employers and want them to get in touch if they are experiencing any problems regarding supporting existing apprentices, or if they have any concerns with hiring new apprentices in the year ahead.”

Ian Hughes, partnerships director at CITB Scotland, said: “This group has been very proactive in tackling any potential problems the construction Modern Apprenticeship programme in Scotland might face in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

“A truly collaborative, cross-industry approach has enabled any potential hurdles to be navigated.

“This survey will enable employers to tell us first-hand what difficulties they may be experiencing, and what help is needed to ensure the MA programme in Scotland continues to deliver the talent of the future.”

Emma Dickson, chair of Construction Scotland Skills Group, said: “I encourage employers to let us know what challenges they are experiencing as a result of coronavirus disruption. This survey will help to inform what interventions are potentially needed for the Modern Apprenticeships Construction Skills Frameworks, and will provide the support and advice employers need to continue to train with confidence.”

To fill out the survey, please click here.