Show Your Support for Trade Apprentices

Where would we be without apprentices? Not only do they provide great help on-site (most of the time), but the apprentice system is a key part of every trade industry, now and in the future.

From 9th to 15th February 2026, the UK Government is promoting National Apprenticeship Week, a celebration of how apprenticeships help shape businesses across the country. There are not many industries where apprenticeships are more important than in the trades, so we’re using this opportunity to celebrate construction apprentices now and in the future – the people that will shape our trades for generations to come.

The Importance of Apprenticeships in the Trades

The trade and construction industry is a crucial part of the UK economy, and after years of undervaluation by authorities, there are positive signs that people are starting to appreciate the importance of entry-level construction roles.

According to research by CITB, over 41,000 new workers are needed in England’s construction industry each year to replace talent leaving the industry or retiring, and to fulfil increasing construction demand in areas such as housing.

Despite this demand for skills, the construction workforce fell by 62,000 between 2024 and 2025. In 2024, NOCN Group also reported a five-year decline in the number of people taking up construction apprenticeships.

As a result of this industry outlook, authorities have increased efforts to encourage more people into construction trades. Part of this has been the promotion of apprenticeships through things such as National Apprenticeship Week, which appears to be having a positive impact.

According to government education statistics, the 2024/25 academic year saw 353,500 people start an apprenticeship programme in England, the highest number of starts in the last five years. While this includes all fields, not just construction, it is a good sign that the tide is turning and more people are considering the benefits of hands-on education once more.

However, there is much more for everyone connected with the construction industry to do. With NOCN Group’s research showing that 47% of construction apprentices fail to complete their apprenticeship, it’s important that we not only attract more people to our trades but we also make it a welcoming and supportive place where talented people can thrive.

How We Can All Support National Apprenticeship Week

No matter who you are – from self-employed traders to small businesses and larger corporations – there’s something you can do to help promote construction apprenticeships and help ensure we have future tradies to count on.

The UK Government’s National Apprenticeship Week website is full of information and toolkits that you can use. Whether you’re a small business interested in taking someone on or simply want to share your own apprenticeship stories to help promote the trade, there is help and support available.

One of the biggest challenges for apprentices is salary, with 44% of those who left a construction apprenticeship citing low wage as a reason, according to NOCN Group’s research. At Fastbuild, one of our driving missions is to support the trade with quality materials at low prices, so for National Apprenticeship Week, we’re offering even more discounts on the essential kit apprentices need to enter the trade.

From 9th to 15th February, our National Apprenticeship Week discounts include 10% off selected tools, PPE clothing and other site products. Whether you’re a new starter or the parent of an apprentice, check out our dedicated section to find great deals on quality site equipment to get their career journey off to a great start.

Enter Our Free Prize Draw to Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week

To further celebrate construction apprentices, we’re running a competition during National Apprenticeship Week where you can win our Ultimate Apprentice Starter Kit, including tools and equipment worth over £135!

The competition will be live across all our social media channels and offers a chance to celebrate everyone making their first steps in the trades. Make sure you follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for details on how to join!