To address the growing skills shortage in the UK construction sector, GetBuilder has officially launched its national 'Get In' Apprenticeship Programme. The initiative commits £500,000 in funding over the next three years to connect young people with experienced mentors, subsidize vocational training, and place 2,500 apprentices into stable, high-paying trade roles by 2027.
By simplifying the path into carpentry, plumbing, bricklaying, and electrical work, the 'Get In' programme aims to change public perceptions of trade careers and build the workforce needed to meet UK housing demands.
The core pillars of the 'Get In' initiative
Our funding is allocated across three key areas to support both new apprentices and the small businesses that hire them:
- Employer Hiring Subsidies: Small trade businesses (under 10 employees) often struggle with the financial cost of training a novice. GetBuilder provides up to £2,000 per placement to cover wages and administrative costs during the apprentice's first six months.
- Tool Starter Kits: A major barrier for young people entering the trades is the upfront cost of professional tools and safety gear. GetBuilder is distributing free Tool Starter Kits (worth £350 each) containing high-quality hand tools, steel-toe boots, and safety wear to all registered apprentices.
- Mentorship & Trade Matching: We match apprentices with experienced local professionals who have 5-star ratings on the GetBuilder platform, ensuring they receive training under elite industry standards.
Why trade careers are a great choice in 2026
For school leavers and young people looking for alternatives to university, the trades offer outstanding career prospects:
- High Earning Potential: Due to severe labor shortages, self-employed plumbers, electricians, and bricklayers can earn between £40,000 and £70,000+ per year, often far exceeding the average salary of university graduates.
- Job Security: You cannot outsource a leaking pipe or automate building a brick extension. A career in the trades offers lifetime job security and high demand.
- Zero Student Debt: Unlike university graduates who leave with tens of thousands in debt, apprentices earn a wage while learning their trade.
A note from our founder
"For too long, vocational training has been overlooked. We want to show young people that a career in the trades is respected, financially rewarding, and structurally vital. The Get In programme is our commitment to building the next generation of trade talent."
Work with vetted professionals on GetBuilder
At GetBuilder, we support local communities by connecting homeowners with certified, insured local trade businesses.
If you have a home renovation project, you can post it in seconds:
- Post your job requirements: Detail the work scope (painting, plumbing, building, gardening) for free on GetBuilder.
- Compare trade profiles: Match with local builders checked for certifications and customer reviews.
- Compare transparent quotes: Receive detailed written estimates from professionals with zero success fees.
