The Masonry Association has welcomed the Government’s announcement that technical education will become a central part of the curriculum for young people from the age of 14, describing the move as a significant step towards addressing the construction skills crisis and restoring parity between academic and vocational learning.
Under the new proposals, pupils will be able to combine core academic subjects with technical education, employer engagement and workplace experience that reflects the needs of their local economy. The reforms aim to create clearer pathways into skilled careers and ensure young people are equipped for the jobs of the future.
For the Masonry Association, this announcement validates the direction of travel that the organisation has already been championing.
For the past year, the Association has been working in partnership with Lady Manners School in Derbyshire to demonstrate exactly what high-quality technical education can look like in practice. Together, we have developed opportunities for students to experience the masonry sector through hands-on learning, employer engagement and exposure to modern methods of construction, helping young people understand that careers in masonry offer exciting, professional and highly skilled opportunities.
Eve Livett, Chief Executive of the Masonry Association, said:
“We are delighted to see technical education being given the recognition it deserves. For far too long, success has been measured by a single academic route, when in reality our economy depends upon highly skilled technical professionals across every sector.
“Our partnership with Lady Manners School has shown just how powerful early engagement can be. When young people are given the opportunity to experience practical learning, meet employers and understand the career opportunities available, they become inspired by the possibilities that exist beyond the traditional classroom.
“However, this announcement must now be backed by action. Significant work is needed to create meaningful incentives for schools, while also building the capacity, resources and industry partnerships required to successfully deliver technical education from the age of 14. Schools cannot deliver this ambition alone—they will need support from employers, training providers and industry organisations.”
The Masonry Association believes the construction industry has a vital role to play in ensuring these reforms succeed. By working directly with schools, colleges and employers, the Association is helping to build a sustainable pipeline of future talent while changing perceptions of careers in masonry.
The Association will continue to expand its work with schools across the country, creating opportunities for young people to experience the industry first-hand and helping education providers connect with local employers.
As Government seeks to place technical education on an equal footing with traditional academic pathways, the Masonry Association stands ready to support schools, employers and policymakers in turning this vision into reality.
Because inspiring the next generation starts long before they leave school.
