New general builder apprenticeship standard targets SME skills needs
A new Level 2 General Builder Apprenticeship Standard has been published to help small and medium-sized construction firms train apprentices in a broader range of building trades.
Developed by employers with the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the standard is designed to reflect the varied work carried out by smaller builders, providing an entry route for young people seeking practical experience across multiple trades.
Unlike apprenticeships focused on a single specialism, the general builder route covers foundational skills in bricklaying, carpentry, plastering and painting.
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It aims to prepare apprentices for work across housebuilding, repair, maintenance, improvement, refurbishment and retrofit projects.
The FMB said the standard had been developed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with its members playing a leading role in its creation.
Apprenticeship aims to address skills gaps among smaller builders
The standard is intended to reflect the demands of working on smaller building sites, where employees may need to undertake a range of tasks before specialising in a particular trade.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The FMB is proud to have been part of the development of this new apprenticeship standard since day one.
“Our members wanted it, and we’ve supported its development as a vital part of making sure smaller builders have the skills they need on site, as for too long there has not been the recognition for new entrants doing multi skilled jobs. This is a significant moment for small builders and for young people looking for a practical route into construction.
“A small local builder is often delivering a mix of tasks across a project, particularly in repair, maintenance, improvement and small-scale housebuilding, and they need new entrants who understand that reality from day one.”
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The FMB said the broader training approach would allow apprentices to develop a grounding in several trades before progressing towards a specialism.
Berry added: “The General Builder Apprenticeship Standard has been shaped by employers who know what life on a small building site looks like.
“It will help create a broader, more flexible entry point into the industry, giving apprentices the confidence and competence to support a range of work before going on to specialise.
“At a time when the UK urgently needs more skilled tradespeople to build new homes, improve existing homes and deliver retrofit, this is exactly the kind of employer-led training route we need.”
Employers lead development of Level 2 standard
The standard was developed through input from employers to ensure the training reflects the requirements of smaller construction businesses.
Annie Summun, Chair of the General Builder Occupational Group, said: “Having led the development on the new General Builder Apprenticeship, it is hugely rewarding to see this standard now available for small and medium-sized employers to train young people.
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“It is the culmination of many hours of discussion to ensure that it would be fit for purpose, and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the process.”
The publication of the standard provides SMEs with a new apprenticeship route intended to support multi-skilled training and the development of future trade workers.
