The Importance of Structured Training and A Qualification – Leading to Competence

Attracting talented individuals to the floorlaying sector requires a structured training pathway with clear direction and the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification or standard. The CFA has been highly proactive in ensuring that robust and purpose-fit apprenticeships and qualifications are available across the UK and also correctly funded.

In today’s competitive job market, young people have an overwhelming range of career options in technology, logistics, manufacturing, construction and retail — all vying for the next generation of workers. Therefore, the support an employer provides alongside paid employment plays a crucial role when individuals consider their first job opportunities.

While earning potential is a key factor in job selection, other essential aspects significantly influence an apprentice’s decision. Employee wellbeing must be a priority, ensuring that apprentices and employees have access to support within the business. Ideally, there should be individuals they can turn to outside their direct chain of command, fostering a supportive and open environment. Structured learning and clear development goals are vital to an apprentice’s growth. Employers and colleagues investing time in their training can be the defining factor in an apprentice’s success.

Setting milestones based on pay progression and completed training helps maintain motivation, reinforcing the link between learning and increasing competence. Managers who understand and empathise with the apprenticeship process play a key role in guiding them towards their goals.

This ties directly to a core theme of our strategy: the need not just for more labour, but for skilled and competent professionals. That level of expertise comes through structured training. Additionally, there is a moral and pastoral imperative, especially when it comes to young people. The outdated approach of simply pairing a new hire with an experienced fitter and expecting them to develop skills ‘on the job’ no longer aligns with the modern world. Today’s sector values diversity, inclusivity, quality, safety, and professional training – ensuring a sustainable and highly skilled workforce for the future.

Of course, employers may have concerns that after investing in an apprentice’s development, they could eventually leave for other opportunities. While this is always a possibility, it should not be a reason to disengage with apprenticeships. The CFA reports having spoken to employers who can agree that a well trained workforce benefits not only the individual employer, but also strengthens the industry as a whole, raising standards and attracting more skilled talent.

Additionally, businesses that invest in training often foster greater loyalty, with many apprentices choosing to stay and progress within the company that supported their development. Creating a strong, supportive training culture ultimately pays dividends, helping to future-proof both the business and the wider sector.

For more training advice, visit or download the free CFA Training Guide.

www.cfa.org.uk
0115 941 1126
info@cfa.org.uk