There are two big issues which will need attention. The first is to persuade head teachers and heads of education departments in schools or colleges to enthuse pupils about these Diplomas. That may not be easy. In a world of league tables, they may prefer to concentrate on "A" levels in academic subjects, or to "lose" youngsters at 16 if they do not see them as academic stars.The second problem is entirely one for the industry, which is how to get employers to back the Diploma. Several large companies and many small and medium sized firms are involved and actively supporting this new qualification. But we need a lot more. Let us encourage employers to join one of the new consortia which will be making the next round of bids or else sign up now to one of the existing consortia to offer work experience, teaching support or site visits to give students some feel for our industry.
There is no shortage of applicants now, especially from school leavers wanting to be apprentices. The problem is that many employers will not take them on. In Scotland, construction firms recruit about 7 apprentices for every 100 adult employees. In London and the South East, where there is so much work, the equivalent figure is about 0.9. That is very depressing.
Please help - and find out more about the Diploma by visiting www.cbediploma.co.uk
