Apprenticeships: 13,000 training opportunities for plumbers, bricklayers and builders - find an apprenticeship
Firms rebuilding schools will be required to create training roles, with colleges receiving funding to expand opportunities 🎓
- 13,000 new apprenticeship and T Level placements will be created in construction
- Roles include training as plumbers, bricklayers and engineers
- Opportunities are tied to a nationwide school rebuilding programme
- More than 750 schools are expected to benefit from confirmed funding to 2035
- A new apprenticeship ‘clearing’ system will be trialled to help applicants secure places
A major expansion of construction training is set to open the door for 13,000 more young people to become plumbers, bricklayers and engineers as part of a nationwide school rebuilding drive.
The Government says the new apprenticeship and T Level industry placements will be tied directly to work on school construction projects.
Firms delivering the projects will be expected to demonstrate they are creating training opportunities for young people as part of their contracts, according to the Department for Education.
It comes as ministers attempt to tackle high numbers of young people not in education, employment or training (Neet). Latest figures show close to one million fell into that category as of September 2025.
Why the new roles are being created
The placements form part of a long-term education estates strategy, which will set out how school and college buildings will be rebuilt and modernised over the next decade.
Funding for the rebuilding programme has been confirmed through to 2034/35. More than 500 schools are already in the scheme, with an additional 250 expected to be selected as extra funding is rolled out.
Skills minister Jacqui Smith said the country “can’t rebuild schools that are fit for the future unless we have the skilled workers we need to build them”, linking construction investment directly to jobs and training.
Colleges will also benefit. Further education providers can now bid for a share of almost £300 million in funding to expand facilities and create more places for learners, supporting apprenticeship growth.
In December, Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged £725 million to fund 50,000 new apprenticeships nationwide.
He has previously set a target for two-thirds of young people to be studying for a degree, in further education or completing an apprenticeship by the age of 25.
To widen access, a university-style apprenticeship “clearing” system will also be trialled this year, helping applicants who narrowly miss out on their first choice.
How to apply for apprenticeships, jobs and training
Use the Government’s official “Find an Apprenticeship” service on GOV.UK, as well as college websites and employer careers pages. Large construction firms involved in school rebuilding are likely to advertise directly.
Speak to local further education colleges offering construction, engineering or T Levels, which can advise on entry requirements and industry placements.
Prepare your CV, making sure to highlight any relevant GCSEs (especially maths and English), work experience, practical skills, and interest in construction or engineering.
Apply early and track deadlines - apprenticeships recruit year-round, but many start in late summer or early autumn. The upcoming clearing-style system may also offer a second chance if you miss out.
Young people aged 16 and over can apply, with many roles offering paid, on-the-job training alongside formal qualifications.
Are you job-hunting? To view thousands of roles available right now, visit the JobsToday website.