CITB’s £290M Investment a Major Boost for Apprenticeships and Vocational Training
Published 18 April 2025 | By Optima Electrical Training
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has set out its ambitious plan to invest nearly £290 million over the next year to address the long-term skills challenges facing the construction sector. For providers like Optima Electrical Training, this is a clear and welcome endorsement of the crucial role that vocational training and apprenticeships play in securing the industry's future.
Announced on 16 April, the CITB Business Plan for 2025/26 is the first step in delivering its Strategic Plan 2025–29. Developed in consultation with employers, training providers, and government, it outlines practical measures aimed at improving recruitment, training, and retention across construction.
At its core, the plan is built around three strategic priorities:
Improving the availability and quality of training
Raising the competence of the current workforce
Strong Investment in Training and Apprenticeships
Over £70.9 million has been allocated to apprenticeship grants, supporting more than 40,000 placements at Level 2 and Level 3. Additionally, CITB will continue to provide financial support for travel and accommodation, ensuring that geographical barriers do not hinder access to training.
As a leading vocational training provider, Optima Electrical Training strongly supports this investment. Whether learners are taking their first steps into an apprenticeship programme or upskilling through practical vocational courses, this funding helps to create more opportunities and a clearer path into meaningful employment in the electrical and wider construction sectors.
Enhanced Training Provision Nationwide
One of the key developments is the creation of a new network of approved training providers. CITB will work with devolved governments and local colleges to ensure training provision aligns more closely with industry needs, qualifications, and evolving standards.
This commitment to aligning training with real-world demands is especially important for vocational education. At Optima, we understand the importance of delivering hands-on, career-focused learning that prepares individuals not just for a job, but for a long-term future in the industry.
Competence, Sustainability and the Future of Skills
The plan includes £15 million in new investment for the National Construction College, enhancing training capacity and supporting a greater focus on sustainability and learner support. With major infrastructure projects and the green energy transition gaining momentum, demand for competent, job-ready professionals is expected to peak by 2027.
CITB is also expanding its New Entrant Support Team and launching local Employer Networks to guide funding where it's needed most—supporting both learners and employers.
A Call to Upskill and Prepare
CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon summarised the plan’s ambition: “To thrive, the industry needs the right skills at the right time.” That time is now. With skills shortages still impacting the sector, there's never been a better moment to train.
At Optima Electrical Training, we’re proud to support individuals at every stage of their journey—whether through structured apprenticeships or vocational training programmes designed for career changers, school leavers, and those seeking to gain industry-recognised qualifications.
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