The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has released fresh data on its New Entrant Support Team (NEST), confirming that in the 2025–26 financial year it supported 5,913 apprentices to begin roles across England, Scotland and Wales — a 43% rise on the previous year.

Over the same period, NEST engaged with 20,579 employers about apprenticeship recruitment — 6,559 more than in 2024–25, an increase of 47%. The team provides hands-on help to firms with finding and hiring new entrants and apprentices, securing grants and funding, and offers continuing support and employee mentoring.

CITB's Construction Workforce Outlook projects the sector will need more than 47,000 additional workers each year to meet demand by 2029. Initiatives like NEST are designed to build a sustainable, resilient pipeline of skilled workers.

-- Advertisement --

To secure its future and achieve national ambitions, the construction industry must invest more in people, modernise its approach to skills and training, and collaborate more effectively across sectors.

CITB's Industry Picture 2026 warns that, without change, the gap between project demand and delivery capacity will widen. NEST helps to streamline processes for employers, enabling CITB to support the sector in attracting talent and championing skills development.

LC Lucas Construction said: "NEST has allowed us to take on our new apprentice without having the impact of having to pay for the apprenticeship, and it has meant we are now considering employing another one.

"The team was a great support to us in among a minefield of information, I didn't know where to start but they walked me through everything and 'kept me right' every step of the way. They simplified the process for me for which I am very grateful."

Deb Madden, Executive Director, Customer Engagement and Operations, said: "It's great to see our New Entrant Support Team making such a difference and supporting so many employers. NEST helps employers navigate the skills system, making the whole process, from recruitment to retention, easier for employers and new entrants by providing them with practical, hands-on guidance.

"We remain committed to continuing our work in supporting employers to build the resilient and skilled workforce that the construction industry needs."

Find out more about the New Entrant Support Team (NEST) on CITB's website or contact the team on 0300 456 6431 or [email protected].