The Finishes & Interiors Sector (FIS) has announced a new partnership with The Skills Centre to provide essential training and support for individuals seeking careers in the finishes and interiors sector. The collaboration is a direct response to the increasing skills shortage within the construction industry, particularly in the finishes and interiors sector, where demand for skilled workers is critical.

Figures from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) indicate that the construction sector will need an additional 251,500 workers by 2028. Furthermore, a significant 61% of FIS members report difficulties in recruiting skilled staff, underscoring the urgency of this partnership in tackling the skills gap. The drive towards Net Zero targets is also expected to further increase demand for insulation and drylining skills due to a rise in retrofit projects as the 2050 deadline approaches.

Through this collaboration, The Skills Centre will deliver a series of intensive Bootcamps designed to equip individuals with the practical skills and industry-specific knowledge required to begin their careers in the finishes and interiors sector. These programmes aim to bridge the gap between potential employees and employer needs by offering hands-on experience and career support to participants.

The first offering will be a free, eight-week "Introduction to Insulation and Drylining" course, leading to a Level 2 qualification. The training and qualifications will cover:

• NVQ Level 2 in Interior Systems

• NVQ Level 2 in Insulation and Building Treatments

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• PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association)

• Manual Handling

• Asbestos Awareness

• First Aid

• CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

Additionally, a new Drylining Apprenticeship will be available for pre-screened local candidates who have completed the funded Bootcamps. This specialist training will cover a range of essential skills, including Partition Walls, MF Ceilings, Grid Ceilings, Shaft Walls, Metsec Installation, Rainscreen Cladding, and Passive Fire Protection.

Employers in the finishes and interiors sector are being encouraged to actively participate in the initiative by offering interview opportunities or providing work experience placements with the potential for future employment. The partnership seeks to support workforce development, create pathways for career progression, and strengthen the talent pipeline within the sector.

Beena Nana, Head of Skills at FIS, commented: “We are thrilled to be partnering with The Skills Centre to enhance the support we provide to our members while tackling the growing skills shortages in our industry. This partnership enables us to combine resources and expertise, fostering opportunities for development, training, and growth, which will ultimately benefit our members and the broader community by addressing critical workforce challenges.”

Sam Downton, Director at The Skills Centre, added: “Our new partnership with FIS marks a significant step forward for the interior systems and drylining sector. This part of the industry plays a critical role in shaping the internal environments where we live, work, and learn—but it continues to face skills shortages and often flies under the radar as a long-term, rewarding career option. Joining forces with FIS brings together their sector leadership and our expertise in delivering high-quality, hands-on training. Central to this partnership are our specialist Bootcamps, which are imperative for attracting new talent into the industry. They provide a direct route for individuals—many of whom are new to construction—to gain essential skills, site experience, and the confidence to move straight into employment. For employers, these Bootcamps open up access to a wider, work-ready talent pool and offer a practical solution to workforce gaps. Together with FIS, we’re not only building stronger pathways into the sector, but also helping to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and skilled future for interior systems and drylining across London and Essex”.

Employers have the opportunity to visit training centres to meet potential candidates and observe the training in action at the following locations:

• Build East, Stratford – Wednesday, 30 April, 14:00 – 16:00

• West Horndon, Essex – Wednesday, 14 April, 12:00 – 14:00

Employers interested in attending these sessions or supporting the initiative are encouraged to contact Beena Nana at [email address removed] or call 0121 707 0077.

A dedicated webinar will also be held for employers seeking more information about the Bootcamps and how they can get involved.