The call follows a report which shows a 27% fall in the number of new apprenticeships started in the UK between August and October compared to the same period during the previous year. Of those, only 0.2% were in the heating sector.
This is despite the launch of a new government scheme to encourage and promote on the job training and a severe skills shortage in the heating sector which is making plenty of jobs available for qualified technicians.
Fuelled by the high costs associated with going to university and the rising cost of living, apprenticeships are increasingly being seen as a highly credible further education option and route into future employment, with more and more students and parents recognising the benefits of hands-on training and experience.
That’s why, as part of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, a nationwide initiative to help young people kick start their careers through apprenticeships, local training centres are highlighting the opportunities a career in the heating industry can bring.
Malcolm Farrow, from OFTEC, said: “The heating sector is a fantastic industry to be involved with, offering good career prospects in a variety of different roles. Apprenticeships provide real hands on experience and they are a great starting place for anyone looking to become a heating technician.
“OFTEC approved training centres work with many young people coming into the heating profession who have already completed an apprenticeship and provide additional industry-recognised qualifications for technicians to demonstrate their professionalism and competence.
“Although building standards and technology are always advancing, people will always need heating and hot water. There is no shortage of work out there – just not enough professionals to do it. Trusted and reliable OFTEC registered heating technicians are always in demand.”
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