A new apprenticeship standard for plastering has been approved by the Government.

The guidelines, which are part of the trailblazer initiative, are set to be rolled out in autumn 2017.

In addition, a new bricklaying standard has also been approved which will be agreed upon in the near future.

The new guidances have been created in collaboration with construction SMEs from across England.

Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), Brian Berry, said developing the standards has been an "exciting process".

"The new bricklaying and plastering apprenticeship standards have been driven by a dynamic group, consisting of training providers, awarding bodies and – crucially – employers who are determined to drive up the quality of training in the construction industry," he said.

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"Given that two-thirds of all construction apprentices are trained by SMEs, no businesses are better suited to lead this piece of work.

"However, although FMB members are leading on this piece of work, it's important to note that these standards also have the official backing of our industry more broadly, following an extensive consultation process.

"The Government has a target to create three million new apprenticeships by 2020 but quantity must never come at the price of quality. We're pleased that the Government has supported us in our mission to design standards that are highly skilled for these vital trades."

Skills Minister, Nick Boles MP, added: "I congratulate all the employers involved in designing the new Plastering apprenticeship standard. By giving leading employers the power to design and deliver high quality apprenticeships we are giving people the vital skills our businesses need."

(LM/JP)