TICA defies trend with record apprentice intake

A national trade organisation is bucking the trend of declining apprenticeship numbers, with plans to welcome a record 200 apprentices to its training centre in 2025.

The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA), which represents UK contractors in hot and cold thermal insulation and is based at The National Training Centre in Darlington, is expanding its training programme, reinforcing its commitment to raising the profile of the thermal insulation sector.

Its efforts come as national figures reveal a significant drop in apprenticeship starts since 2015.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February), TICA will showcase career opportunities at events nationwide, as it looks to “attract and inspire the next generation of thermal insulators”. 

Helen Anderson, TICA’s deputy chief executive and head of learning, said: “We are on track to welcome more than 200 apprentices to our National Training Centre in Darlington during 2025, a figure that reflects the success of our initiatives. 

“At a time when apprenticeship numbers are declining and the construction sector is grappling with a skills shortage, this represents a significant step forward.

“Thermal insulation offers a rewarding, well-paid career with clear progression opportunities, while also playing a critical role in the UK’s journey toward net-zero.”

TICA, which offers apprenticeships that combine hands-on experience with classroom-based learning, has incorporated the TIPCHECK tool into its curriculum, enabling apprentices to calculate heat loss and assess energy savings via an app-based calculator - aligning training with sustainability goals.

Helen added: “The skills we teach are about more than insulation – they’re about driving sustainability. 

“By incorporating tools like TIPCHECK into the curriculum, we’re equipping apprentices to make a real-world impact in their careers.”

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