On-the-job training within wood-based occupations in the construction industry is often inadequate, according to the Adult Learning Institute (ALI).
The ALI’s annual report, released on July 30, says few employers are fully aware of how they can help their learners and there is little opportunity for assessment in the workplace. Supervisors and trainers are “rarely involved” in learners’ progress reviews and remain unaware of their needs for help with basic skills.
The report, which also highlighted training problems in bricklaying, painting and decorating, says training providers, particularly in the south of England, are finding it difficult to recruit enough learners to make their programmes viable.
Richard Lambert, director of the British Woodworking Federation, admitted there is a problem getting apprentices into the joinery industry.
But he added: “The big concern is that people coming into apprenticeships do not have the basic skills of communication, numeracy and IT. Most employers do not see that as their job – that’s what schools are expected to do.”
