The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is strengthening its commitment to apprenticeships, promoting the sector as a credible, long-term career path. Amid a growing UK construction skills shortage and regulatory reform, the Federation emphasizes not only recruitment but the quality of training.

GGF’s advocacy work continues through the Apprenticeship Coalition, a 31-member group led by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). Speaking with Neil Coyle MP, Chris Beedel highlighted that proposed reforms, like flexible end-point assessments and the transition from the Apprenticeship Levy to the Growth & Skills Levy, could risk lowering essential competence standards. John Mannell, Technical Officer at GGF, stresses that independent assessment ensures safe, compliant work in this safety-critical sector.

Alongside policy efforts, GGF actively promotes careers at major UK events. On 29 January, at the National Apprenticeship and Further Education Event in Liverpool, the team engaged with 200+ students, showcasing opportunities from installation to creative glass disciplines, supported by industry figures including Martin from Bootle Glass, Simon Swift (FENSA), Chris Ferris, Ray Moss, and Sarah Hutchinson (GGF). Momentum continued on 5 February at the CITB NI Apprenticeship Event in Belfast, supporting employers such as Mourne Windows & Doors and Turkington Windows.

Through the Skilled Pathways for Trainees programme, delivered via the GGF Training Hub, structured routes provide recognised qualifications and competency benchmarks.