The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) has confirmed that Procat (Prospects College of Advanced Technology) has agreed to press ahead with the development of an apprenticeship scheme for KBB installation.
This comes after an initial research phase, with the second stage including an iKBBI survey, published over the next two or three weeks, asking the KBB sector what they believe should be included in the curriculum from a skills perspective.
This will form part of the development phase, a total 24-month process before the apprenticeship is launched.
It has also confirmed a working group will be formed, co-chaired by the iKBBI and Procat, that will be made up of volunteer businesses across the industry. A total number of 10 businesses will participate in the group.
The iKBBI will unveil the ‘iAcademy’, an online portal for both iKBBi members and non-members. The portal will provide Continual Personal Development (CPD) opportunities in legislation and consumer, business development, technical and onsite practice and product areas.
Damian Walters (pictured), iKBBI chief executive, said: “This is another exciting development for us, as we see the provision of quality, relevant, cost-effective and accessible training opportunities for professional installers as important as providing a pathway for industry newcomers. Watch this space.”
It has also launched 32 inspectors, who deliver independent inspection services to a number of businesses. It said it would be expanding the services over the next 12 months to include the provision of general inspection support for its retail Installation Standards Partners.