In order to continue to attract, train and retain the talent for the future, The INS-PIRE Academy recently relaunched at an industry-wide collaborative event, which included representatives from the insurance and construction industries.
Held at The National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, on 24 April 2025, the relaunch event provided an exciting opportunity for attendees to come together to create an important legacy for the construction industry.
Designed to bridge the growing skills gap, the INS-PIRE Academy is dedicated to supporting young people entering the industry, providing structured learning, training, and real-world experience tailored to insurance-related building and repair needs.
The Academy is open to apprentices and trainees from recognised training programmes, including CITB, NVQ and City & Guilds. It equips them with the necessary skills for careers in specific trades or multi-trade roles, supporting both skill development and long-term sustainability. This initiative also offers apprentices a valuable insight into the insurance claims market, and has already impacted over a thousand young people.
More than just a training initiative, INS-PIRE fosters collaboration between industry stakeholders, ensuring skilled professionals for the future.
The relaunch event brought together five of the leading insurance companies, including Aviva, Alliance, LV, DLG and Admiral, demonstrating the importance of nationwide collaboration to strengthen industry skills.
Liam Hanlon, regional contact across Merseyside and the surrounding areas for the INS-PIRE Academy, and our managing director at The Forshaw Group, emphasised the importance of industry-wide participation: “The INS-PIRE Academy is not just about training – it’s about legacy. By working together, we can create lasting opportunities for young people and ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry.”
A unique feature of the Academy is its annual enhancement days, designed to give apprentices exposure to the broader industry whilst promoting personal development. The next enhancement day will be a Mountain Adventure Day at Blencathra, in the picturesque Lake District on Friday 16 May. This will offer young people a steep learning curve into adventure, fundraising and skills development, all designed to promote a healthy lifestyle and community involvement alongside their vocational training.
Businesses interested in signing up to providing opportunities for apprentices and trainees alongside the INS-PIRE Academy’ aims, objectives and ethos of supporting the future should contact Liam Hanlon, who will help and guide businesses through the commitment charter:
INS-PIRE@theforshawgroup.com
