The UK construction industry is displaying high levels of skills confidence, yet internal barriers are preventing the widespread adoption of apprenticeships needed to secure its future talent pipeline.
New research by Arden University reveals a workforce that feels more prepared than most for the future, but one that’s also being held back by age-related myths and a perceived lack of employer support for upskilling.
The data shows that construction workers are feeling confident in their skills, with 88% backing their leadership abilities (vs national average of 78%) and 63% feeling prepared to handle future industry changes (vs national average of 57%). However, despite this proactive outlook and a strong belief that apprenticeships play a crucial role in future business success (49%), widespread adoption of such training programmes to fuel the industry’s future talent pipeline remains a critical challenge.
A key issue is the persistent myth that apprenticeships are only for young people. Among those unwilling to consider a construction apprenticeship or similar training programme, 62% state they feel “too old”, a belief that is particularly prevalent in the construction sector. This is compounded by a perceived lack of employer support, with only 19% of employees believing their employer would support them to undertake an apprenticeship. This talent paradox – high ambition met with hidden hurdles – is creating a retention risk, as 52% of the workforce would consider leaving if better professional development opportunities were offered elsewhere.
“Retention is increasingly about future skills. Employers that stand up apprenticeship pathways now won’t solely fill vacancies, they’ll keep their best people,” said Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning at Arden University. “The confidence and ambition in the construction sector are assets. The challenge is to convert that potential into capability by making mid-career and leadership apprenticeships visible, accessible and clearly supported.”
In light of National Apprenticeship Week, Arden University is urging construction firms to tackle these barriers head-on. By scaling higher-level apprenticeships, pairing each place with a mentor and guaranteeing protected learning time, employers can challenge the “too old” myth, demonstrate commitment and secure the advanced skills needed to drive the industry forward.
This investment not only boosts retention but also delivers a significant return of approximately £21 for every £1 spent.
