Author name: Joe Harris

Welcoming New Member: Armstrong Priestley

We are proud to welcome Armstrong Priestley, the UK’s leading independent fire protection contractor, as the newest member of the National Association of Shopfitters. With nearly 50 years of experience, Armstrong Priestley has built a first-class reputation for delivering fire sprinkler solutions that protect life and property across the UK. Founded in 1976, the company […]

Welcoming New Member: Armstrong Priestley Read More »

CITB’s 2025–2029 Construction Outlook: Urgent Need for Skilled Trades and Workforce Investment

On the 19th of June 2025, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) released their ‘Construction Workforce Outlook 2025–2029′, outlining both significant opportunities and pressing challenges for the UK construction sector – including the shopfitting industry. With output reaching £215.7 billion in 2024 and projected to grow at an average of 2.1% annually over the next

CITB’s 2025–2029 Construction Outlook: Urgent Need for Skilled Trades and Workforce Investment Read More »

Progress Update on NOS for Wood Occupations Review

National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Wood Occupations Review Update from Amanda Scott, Chair of NOS Wood Occupations Review Body, and National Working Group. It has been a privilege to lead the alignment of the NAS and the Institute of Carpenters (IOC) across all timber trades, through a constructive collaboration focused on updating and standardising wood

Progress Update on NOS for Wood Occupations Review Read More »

Choosing the Right Qualification: Diploma vs. S/NVQ

Understanding the Difference Between a Diploma and an S/NVQ When investing thousands of pounds in a qualification for a new entrant into our sector, it’s crucial to understand the difference between two commonly discussed options: occupation-related non-competence qualifications and occupational competence qualifications. In this latest Skills Update, your NAS Skills Lead Amanda Scott explains the

Choosing the Right Qualification: Diploma vs. S/NVQ Read More »

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Has Closed

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) is no more, following its closure on 1st June 2025 and transition to Skills England. Skills England’s mission is to build our nation’s skills, enabling growth and opportunity. Helping businesses to boost their workforce and get more people into skilled jobs faster, enabling prosperity. Working across government,

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Has Closed Read More »