NHMF
Maintenance
Conference
Timetable

Tuesday 20 January 2026 | 15:50

P4 Breaking Down Barriers to Apprenticeships

The social housing (and construction) sectors face a critical skills shortage, with thousands of apprenticeship applications each year but only a fraction of places available. The sector as a whole needs about 280,000 apprentices, but only around 20,000 are being filled each year to replace those retiring. Plus, there is typically a 20–40% drop-out rate in apprenticeship programs.  

Despite high demand, sector-wide barriers, such as limited capacity, retention challenges, and fragmented approaches, are preventing us from unlocking the full potential of apprenticeships. This session aims to move beyond discussion and catalyse real action. 

Presenters

Sarah Turner

Client Manager - Skills Development, City & Guilds

Clare Middleton

Lead Programme Partner, Ian Williams

Duncan Palmer

Head of Locality Operations, Platform Housing

Jen Radcliffe

Head of Partnerships, PFP Thrive

Tom Arey

Academy Director, PFP Thrive

File downloads

Breaking Down Barriers to Apprenticeships Session Presentation

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