The Centre for Entrepreneurs, Homes for Scotland and the Home Builders Federation have praised the lender’s education course, which was established in 2016 to help develop the skills of new, small-scale developers.

The Home Builders Federation has supported the academy since late 2016, advising on course content and providing expert speakers.

John Slaughter, director of external affairs at the Home Builders Federation, said: “SME home builders benefit greatly from initiatives like the LendInvest Property Development Academy.

“We are delighted to be assisting LendInvest with its Property Development Academy, a programme that will help small housebuilders.”

The extension of the course to Scotland was endorsed by Homes for Scotland and the Scottish housing minister Kevin Stewart MSP.

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Nicola Barclay, chief executive of Homes for Scotland, said: “Support for those starting out in the sector, such as that offered by the Property Development Academy, is key and Homes for Scotland is pleased to endorse the LendInvest programme.”

Matt Smith, director of the Centre for Entrepreneurs, added: “The LendInvest Property Development Academy is an essential industry initiative providing a launchpad for early-stage property professionals and helping break down the barriers to entry in the sector.”

The Centre for Entrepreneurs is a cross-sector think-tank that promotes the role of entrepreneurs in creating economic growth and social wellbeing in the UK.

So far, more than 215 applicants have been accepted to attend the two-day courses, which are held in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Birmingham.

“It is brilliant to see the support that the Academy continues to draw from all corners of the industry, and rightfully so,” said Ian Thomas, co-founder and chief investment officer at LendInvest.

“While a lot of government attention remains fixed on international issues such as Brexit at this time, it is encouraging to see that housing remains a top priority for government and the major industry groups championing the aim of increasing Britain’s housing stock.”