THE Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has released updated figures for its New Entrant Support Team (NEST).
The data shows that, between the 2025–26 financial year (FY), NEST supported 5,913 apprentices to join the industry across Scotland, England, and Wales – representing a 43% increase compared to the previous FY.
Additionally, in the 2025-26 financial year, CITB’s NEST engaged with 20,579 employers to discuss apprenticeship recruitment requirements – 6,559 more than the previous FY, a 47% increase. NEST offers hands-on support to employers to help with recruiting new entrants and apprentices, accessing grants and funding, as well as providing ongoing support and employee mentoring.
CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook found that over 47,000 extra workers are needed every year to meet demand by 2029. Initiatives such as NEST are in place to help build a sustainable and resilient construction workforce that can fulfil the growing requirements expected of the industry, it explained.
To secure its future and deliver on national ambitions, the construction industry must invest more in people, modernise its approach to skills and training, and work collaboratively across sectors, CITB continued.
CITB’s Industry Picture 2026, which explores the challenges and opportunities underpinning the industry, finds that if the construction industry continues with the same approach, it will encounter a widening gap between project demand and its capacity to deliver. That’s why NEST looks to simplify the process for employers, in turn helping CITB to support the construction industry to attract talent and champion 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 at CITB, said, “It’sgreat 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.”
