The ECITB has reopened its popular Train to Retain pandemic support scheme to new applications – closing date 5 March 2021.

Train to Retain supports essential skills training in the engineering construction industry, helping employers to develop the talented workforce required to bounce back when economic conditions improve. Since the Train to Retain initiative was launched in June 2020, it has helped more than 500 apprentices, trainees and graduates to pursue their recognised industry programmes at the present time. These new entrants are relatively inexperienced and find themselves more vulnerable during times of economic instability.

ECITB Chief Executive Chris Claydon

ECITB Chief Executive Chris Claydon

Chris Claydon, ECITB’s Chief Executive said “I am extremely proud of what the Train to Retain scheme has achieved so far and delighted that we are able to continue to provide this support to the engineering construction industry at what remains a challenging time.

“By helping to keep hundreds of young engineers around the country in work and learning vital workplace skills, the ECITB is making a real investment in the future of our industry.”

The latest round of grant funding will be available from 29 March 2021 for eligible individuals to undertake further training and development, enabling them to acquire new skills and remain with their current employer. It will run until December 2021.

In-scope employees can apply for funding for graduates, apprentices and trainees who meet the qualifying discipline criteria. Employers will also be able to apply for up to an additional 120 days of Train to Retain support for learners already on the programme who are within 30 days of using up their existing funding.

In addition, we are opening up the scheme to new recruits employed prior to the 31 December 2020.

The ECITB will contribute a day rate to fund training and professional development activities of £110 for apprentices, £120 for trainees or £130 for graduates. Further funding will be announced later in the year subject to demand and budgetary headroom.

For more information on eligibility and to apply visit www.ecitb.org.uk/traintoretain