This Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme will give more young people the opportunity to train as bricklayers, plumbers and carpenters.

As part of the upcoming education estates strategy, construction firms working on school buildings will have to show that they are providing opportunities for apprentices and T-Level students.

A set requirement of 90% of these opportunities will be offered within a 30-mile radius of the school being built, providing a boost to local communities across the country.

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Colleges can also now bid for a share of almost £300m in capital funding to create more college places, in addition to £283m devolved to metro mayors and local leaders.

The funding will aim to create more places for 16-19 year olds and also expand construction training provision, reduce waiting lists and address skills shortages.

“Our education estates strategy will set out our vision for school and college buildings to deliver growth and opportunity to their local communities, backed by our plan for a decade of national renewal,” said skills minister Jacqui Smith.

“This government is leading by example, creating incredible opportunities for our young people by championing apprenticeships and T Levels in our school and college building projects.”