MD of Apprenticeship Partner, and chair of BiKBBI Education Committee, Hannah Hockley said she was “very positive” about the launch of Government body Skills England, for the KBB industry.

Skills England will bring together central and local Government, businesses and training providers, to provide oversight of the post-16 skills system, aligned to the Government’s Industrial Strategy.

It will focus on supporting local areas to develop the skilled workforces they need – in particular construction and healthcare.

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Hannah Hockley commented: “I feel very positive about the launch of Skills England and its potential impact on the KBB sector as a whole.

“As an industry that relies heavily on skilled craftsmanship and technical expertise, the development of a robust pipeline of talent is crucial for sustained growth and innovation.”

She continued stating the focus of Skills England meets the needs of KBB industry: “Skills England’s focus on vocational training and apprenticeships aligns well with the industry’s needs, providing young people with the hands-on experience and technical knowledge required to excel in KBB professions.”

“This initiative not only enhances the employability of the younger workforce but also ensures that the industry can meet the increasing demand for highly skilled tradespeople across the KBB sector.

“By investing in skill development, Skills England supports the KBB industry’s commitment to excellence, quality, and customer satisfaction, fostering a future where skilled tradespeople can thrive and contribute significantly to the economy.”

Chair of the Kbsa Richard Hibbert welcomed the Government’s focus on skills training and called for “joined up thinking” with a sense of urgency.