Amid proposed reforms to the apprenticeship system, the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has stepped up its engagement with government to safeguard the competence framework underpinning safe construction practices.
From April 2026, the Apprenticeship Levy will transition into a new Growth & Skills Levy, designed to provide employers with greater flexibility in how they invest in workforce training.
John Mannell, technical officer at the GGF
Designed to streamline the system and increase apprenticeship uptake across the UK, the reforms are expected to allow funding to be used more widely for modular, shorter, and targeted skills programmes, alongside changes to end-point assessment structures.
While increasing participation is widely supported, sectors that deliver critical building elements, including glazing and fenestration systems, have expressed concern.
Reducing independent assessment could dilute training standards and weaken competence frameworks essential to safe construction.
The GGF has formally raised these concerns with Neil Coyle MP and is collaborating as part of the 31-member Apprenticeship Coalition, led by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), to ensure reforms balance accessibility and assurance.
“Encouraging more people into apprenticeships is something the industry fully supports, and greater flexibility in training investment can help address skills shortages,” said John Mannell, technical officer at the GGF.
“However, competence must remain at the centre of any reform. Independent assessment plays a critical role in ensuring that individuals entering the sector are properly trained, objectively assessed, and capable of delivering safe and compliant results.”
“As reforms emerge and evolve, it is vital that flexibility does not come at the expense of consistent, independently verified standards – particularly in sectors governed by the Building Safety Act.”
As the recognised voice of the glass and glazing sector, the GGF continues to engage with government and sector partners to ensure apprenticeship reform supports workforce growth while maintaining professional competence.
The GGF also continues to support new talent entering the industry through its Skilled Pathways for Trainees programme, delivered via the GGF Training Hub.
The initiative provides structured routes into the industry, offering recognised qualifications and clear competency benchmarks to support both employers and apprentices.
The GGF said the Federation will continue reinforcing its commitment to protecting standards, supporting members, and strengthening the long-term capability of the glass and glazing workforce.
