Inspection report recognises LSST’s practical training, support for disadvantaged adults and efforts to help more women enter the construction industry.

A construction training provider based in Wembley has been recognised by Ofsted for its work helping adults develop practical skills, prepare for employment and explore self-employment.

The latest inspection report on the London School of Science and Technology (LSST) highlights the provider’s inclusive approach to adult learning, industry links and efforts to widen participation in construction, including by women.

LSST met Ofsted’s Expected standard for inclusion, leadership and governance, and adult learning programmes. It also met all safeguarding standards.

The findings come as LSST continues to develop its construction training offer, supporting adults looking to retrain and gain practical skills for the workplace.

Training for real jobs and self-employment

At LSST’s Construction Training Centre in Wembley, adults undertake practical training in areas including painting and decorating. Courses combine hands-on skills with preparation for working safely and confidently on construction sites.

Ofsted highlighted the vocational skills learners develop and the support they receive to progress. The report confirmed that every learner on LSST’s painting and decorating programmes gained their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card, an important qualification for accessing many construction sites.

The provision also connects training with the realities of finding work. Employer involvement includes careers talks, mock interviews, recruitment activities and opportunities to learn about construction projects.

For learners interested in working for themselves, support extends beyond practical trade skills. They can develop their understanding of business registration, taxation, invoicing and the responsibilities involved in operating as a sole trader.

Matt Garvey, Head of Further Education and Business Development at LSST, said: “I’m extremely proud of the work our Further Education team has done to support learners and help them build practical and site-ready skills for the workplace. The Ofsted inspection gives us a fantastic platform to build on that momentum and keep elevating the learner experience we offer.”

Making construction training more inclusive

Construction has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. LSST’s inspection report highlights its work to encourage more women to enter the sector, including targeted recruitment, access to female mentors and appropriately fitted personal protective equipment.

Inspectors also recognised the support available to learners who face barriers to education and employment. This includes individual guidance, mental health support and help with essential needs.

The report found that almost all adult learners complete their training and achieve their qualifications, including people who begin with low levels of prior attainment.

Foteini Meleti, Senior Programme Manager at LSST, said: “For some learners, the next step is applying for a job. For others, it may be taking on work independently. In any case, we support our learners to understand the practical skills involved and to feel better prepared to take their next career step.”

Expanding opportunities for Londoners

LSST has secured £500,000 in Greater London Authority funding to expand its construction training offer through the London Talent Pathway. Its wider provision aims to help eligible adults develop skills that can lead to employment or self-employment.

The Wembley centre forms part of a £1 million investment in construction training facilities, giving learners opportunities to develop practical trade skills in a dedicated training environment.

The inspection also identifies areas where LSST needs to improve, including the consistency of written feedback, tutors’ expertise in evidence-informed inclusive teaching and the analysis of differences in learner outcomes. Ofsted noted that progression into employment or self-employment had improved, particularly in painting and decorating, although outcomes were not consistently high across all provision.

The findings provide a basis for LSST to build on the strengths identified by inspectors while continuing to improve the experience and outcomes of adult learners.

For people considering a career change, the training offers a potential route into a practical industry, whether their ambition is to secure employment or establish a business of their own.