Skills News

In January 2026 the UK Government announced it was set to rejoin the European Union’s Erasmus+ programme from January 2027 onwards, restoring a major route for study and training placements across Europe. This agreement will allow reciprocal participation in exchange for students and staff. The return will boost the construction sector by facilitating the return

As the government moves forward with its most significant overhaul of apprenticeship standards in years, we are delighted to confirm that James Filus, Director of the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) and the Institute of Carpenters (IOC), has been appointed to the newly formed Construction Assessment Reform Taskforce. This appointment ensures that the voice of

Implementation Date: 8 January 2026 As members may be aware, significant changes to the CITB Grant and Funding Scheme officially came into effect last week on 8 January 2026. These changes fundamentally alter how training is funded, particularly regarding Short Courses and Long Qualifications. To ensure your business maximizes its available funding and avoids unexpected

CITB has confirmed a series of changes to its grants and funding offer, taking effect from 8 January 2026, following today’s meeting. In short, growing demand for training funding without an increase in Levy rates means CITB is reshaping its support to focus more directly on addressing the industry skills gap. What’s changing from 8

We’re excited to share more about the NAS & IOC Members’ Day, taking place on Wednesday 22 April 2026 at Carpenters’ Hall, London. This year’s theme, The Future, looks at the skills, innovations, and opportunities shaping shopfitting, carpentry, and joinery. And with the event already filling fast, now is the perfect time to secure your

CITB has confirmed that funding for all Training Groups will end on 31 March 2026, marking a significant shift in how levy funds are reinvested across the construction sector. The decision was shared with all Training Groups at a briefing this morning. According to CITB, demand on levy funds has risen by 36%, while levy

The National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) and The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA) are continuing to work together to strengthen the Shopfitting and Commercial Signage Installer pathway – and we want your input. This new provisional SICCS card is just the first step toward a clearer, more structured route for professionals in our sector.

New SICCS Card Launch: Shopfitting Commercial Signage Installer – Provisional  We’re pleased to announce the launch of the new SICCS Commercial Signage Installer – Provisional card, developed in partnership between the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) and the British Sign & Graphics Association (BSGA).  This new digital-only card is designed to help operatives working in