The construction sector faces a dual challenge: delivering the homes the UK needs while building a workforce with the skills to meet net zero ambitions. As timber and modern methods of construction become increasingly important, education and training providers have a vital role to play in preparing the next generation of professionals.

The Educators & Trainers Forum 2026 will bring together colleges, universities and CITB-accredited training providers to explore the latest outputs from the CITB Timber in Construction Skills (TiCS) programme. The programme is led by Donaldson Timber Systems and in collaboration with BE-ST, Edinburgh Napier University, NMITE, Timber Development UK and the Structural Timber Association. Attendees will get an exclusive look at new short course content, curriculum toolkits and practical learner rigs designed to support structural timber construction education, while discovering how these resources can be embedded into existing teaching and training programmes.

The forum will also showcase the Building from Forests installation, developed with the V&A, alongside the Building from England’s Woodlands publication, demonstrating how research, innovation and UK-grown timber can be translated into engaging learning experiences that support the ambitions of the UK Timber in Construction Roadmap. Building from England’s Woodlands was funded by Forestry Commission England and led by NMITE in collaboration with BE-ST, Edinburgh Napier University, dRMM and EcoSystem Technologies.

This event is an opportunity for educators and trainers to shape the future of structural timber education. Through discussion and feedback, participants will help refine new learning materials, influence future curriculum development, support the rollout of training across the sector, and strengthen the skills pipeline needed to deliver a more sustainable built environment.

Come along to this event to connect with peers, influence nationally significant training resources, and help equip the workforce needed to deliver the UK’s housing and net zero ambitions.

This is an external event – click here (or the button below) to register.

A Collaborative Sprint for the Future of Engineering Education

Generative AI is shifting engineering faster than higher education can pace. Our student panels reveal a stark reality: students are often highly sophisticated AI users, who genuinely want to learn, not just short-circuit assessments. Meanwhile, industry is rapidly transforming graduate recruitment, to prioritise different skills.

How do we respond without reverting to policed, exam-hall control, and whilst giving our students the space to build the skills, alongside knowledge, they’ll need to succeed?

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