CONSTRUCTION firms in Yorkshire are being urged to develop more training-based employment programmes to tackle a growing skills gap and attract the brightest youngsters.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors says firms need to do more if the industry is to find talent to fill the 190,000 construction jobs expected to be created by the end of 2018.

Victoria Hampson, RICS regional director, said: “We have to make it easier for young people to find an appropriate route into the industry, whether that is through apprenticeships or degree-level qualifications.

“Our research shows that if the skills epidemic doesn’t improve in the next three years, 27,000 planned buildings are at risk of not being built. If we’re to overcome this, we need to reduce the dropout rate from apprenticeships and other training courses by better linking them to the nature of the jobs that are likely to be available, along with relevant qualifications.”

RICS is working with a number of regional firms, including BAM Construct, CBRE, Carillion, DTZ and Balfour Beatty, to develop a range of Trailblazer apprenticeships which will see apprentices gain vocational and academic qualifications.

Victoria added: “The construction industry looks set to grow over the next five years, but it’s very unlikely that we’ll have the capacity or the capability to fulfil planned projects. We are now calling for employers in the sector to support our work in bringing through the next generation of construction talent.”

Employers interested in delivering a Trailblazer apprenticeship should visit :

apprenticeships.org.uk/standards

Meanwhile, following the A-level results, a Bradford Council agency is holding drop-in sessions to help local students with their plans for the future.

The Connexions Bradford sessions, delivered by education, employment, training group Prospects, will provide impartial advice on options sich as continuing in education, apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities.

The first session is at Culture Fusion on Thornton Road on Thursday August 25 from 1pm followed by one at Keighley Connexions Centre. Town Hall, Bow Street, on Friday August 26 from 11am .

Liz Hemsley, prospects manager at Connexions Bradford, said: “Young people around the country are now making decisions that will have an impact for the rest of their lives. If you are aged 16 or 17 and need help making a decision about where to study or train Connexions Bradford can help. Expert personal advisers are here to provide support and impartial advice to help you make the best decision for your future.”