LABC Academy welcomes seventh cohort of Trainee Building Inspectors

15.10.2026

Last month, a further 64 trainee building inspectors joined the LABC Academy, providing an injection of new talent into public service building control.

Since its launch in 2022, the LABC Academy has recruited more than 300 trainees across England and Wales. With further recruitment planned every six months until February 2029, the programme is creating a sustained pipeline of new building control professionals.

The LABC Academy Trainee Building Inspector programme provides the perfect opportunity for trainees to earn while they learn. During the two-year programme trainees gain a level 4 and level 5 diploma in building control surveying and learn the skills and experience required to become a Registered Building Inspector.

When asked what attracted trainees to the role the latest cohort said:

"It’s a great opportunity to gain qualifications and get a foothold in a good career path with an opportunity to earn while you learn"

"The role of a building inspector in a local authority offers a stable, ever-changing career'

"The opportunity to learn theoretical knowledge whilst applying that to real work within a local authority"

"I wanted a good career path and the focus on public safety really aligned with me"

"The clear career progression within building control, the hands-on nature of the work and the impressive reviews of the LABC Academy scheme"

"Getting paid to learn and gain qualifications with a clear pathway to progression in an interesting and varied field"

"The chance to start a new career with little experience as a paid trainee with the prospect of career progression"

"A clear route to becoming a Registered Building Inspector whilst earning and learning"

"A career I’ve always wanted to pursue but didn’t want to go to university, so earning while learning was the perfect opportunity"

"Gaining qualifications and being recognised in a professional role with scope to progress further"

The structured learning programme and career progression is attracting a diverse range of applicants who are interested in meaningful jobs in their local community. Whether a career changer, school leaver or someone returning to work, the programme has been developed to support trainees in developing the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours to become a Registered Building Inspector (RBI).

The latest LABC Academy cohort reflects the programme’s broad reach: women account for 31% of trainees, while 25% are from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Lorna Stimpson, LABC Chief Executive says:

“Our latest recruitment campaign attracted more than 1000 applications, and we interviewed nearly 200 people. Those figures challenge the perception that people are not drawn to careers in construction.
The opportunity to earn while you learn with a structured training programme and career progression means we have people applying from various backgrounds. Candidates are clearly drawn to the potential of a rewarding career in public service building control, recognising that building inspectors are at the forefront of safety and sustainability within their communities.”