Training Programme Supports Energy Efficiency Retrofit Jobs
January 28, 2026New scheme aims to develop skills and create job opportunities in Leeds
A new training programme has been launched this month to help meet the growing demand for housing retrofit work in Leeds. The Real Green Jobs Accelerator Scheme focuses on upskilling unemployed individuals in the installation of external wall insulation (EWI), a key measure in improving energy efficiency in homes.
Programme details and partners
The scheme is led by EN:Procure, the procurement arm of the social housing consortium Efficiency North, and supported by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. It works in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Job Centre Plus to provide training and employment opportunities for local people.
Over six weeks, the first cohort of eight learners will receive training covering health and safety, building suitability assessments, practical installation techniques, and aftercare related to EWI. Upon completion, each trainee will be guaranteed a job interview with Equans and its subcontractors, who are involved in a three-year EWI improvement contract for Leeds City Council.
Overall, the scheme expects to benefit nearly 50 learners through subsequent cohorts, with the second group due to start in February. Participants attend in person two days per week, combining classroom learning with practical workshop experience.
Addressing skills shortages and supporting local employment
The programme aims to address a recognised shortage of green skills in the construction industry, particularly in energy efficiency retrofit work. In West Yorkshire alone, it is estimated that around 700,000 homes require energy efficiency upgrades. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) forecasts that an additional 33,000 operatives will be needed in EWI by 2028.
Simeon Perry, head of ESG at EN:Procure, said the scheme was developed to help meet the UK government’s target of achieving Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating C in all social and private rented homes by 2030. He added that the programme provides both job security for local people and essential skills for the industry.
Collaborative effort
The training is delivered by Leeds College of Building (LCB), with project coordination by Enable Futures on behalf of EN:Procure. Additional support comes from Leeds City Council, Jewson Partnership Solutions, which provides the training room, and Wetherby Wall Systems, which supplies building materials.
LCB’s CEO and principal, Nikki Davis, highlighted the collaborative nature of the scheme and the contribution of staff involved in its development and delivery. She noted the importance of partnerships in creating a comprehensive training programme combining theory and practical skills.
Participant experience
Aaron Rees, a member of the first cohort, commented on the value of the course, saying it offers a good range of skills and experience applicable to various jobs. He also appreciated the combination of work experience and college training.
Funding and future outlook
The scheme is funded through commitments from Equans and Leeds City Council, alongside financial support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. It forms part of a broader effort to boost skills and employability in the region’s construction sector.
For more information about courses at Leeds College of Building, visit their course directory.
