PlanBEE Feasibility Study for Edinburgh and South East Scotland

Learners

24 Apr

Written By BE-ST

BE-ST and the Centre for Net Zero High-Density Buildings (CeNZ High DB) are delivering a focused research and engagement programme to explore the potential adoption of the PlanBEE higher-level apprenticeship model in Scotland.

The study is examining how the model could support an industry-led route into careers in design, construction and management, while ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion are considered from the outset.

The project is being delivered in collaboration with the HCI Skills Gateway, Skills Development Scotland, BEST, Gateshead College and Ryder Architecture. CeNZ’s role is primarily in-kind, contributing specialist EDI expertise, staff time and support to strengthen the feasibility work through to project completion in May 2026.

Who is this for:

Learners
Employers
Educators and training providers
Policy & programme teams

Level / Stage :

Feasibility and development stage. The project is testing the practicality, relevance and inclusivity of adapting the PlanBEE model for the Edinburgh and South East Scotland region. It is intended to inform future delivery rather than immediate rollout.

What was delivered

WP1 workshop analysis and input presentation materials (demographic insights, risks of exclusion, good practice)
WP2 1-to-1 in-depth interview and focus group with 30 industry stakeholders.
WP3: Analysis of the interview and focus group will be formed to inform the feasibility study.
Derive a learner persona from the case study.

Outputs / Resources

Feasibility study evidence-based.
Programme insights and historic learner data from Gateshead College and Ryder Architecture.
Labour market intelligence from Skills Development Scotland.
EDI guidance, interview prompts and learner personas informed by CeNZ.
Reviewable feasibility outputs and recommendations for future development.

Impact

The project identified key barriers to recruitment, placement, accessibility and progression.
It highlighted practical enablers that could make the PlanBEE-Scotland model more inclusive.
The work supported wider participation from women career-switchers, disabled learners and young people from low-income backgrounds.
It strengthened the evidence base for an accessible, industry-led built environment pathway in Scotland.

Next steps

Complete the feasibility study and use the findings to inform the future design and delivery of an inclusive PlanBEE pathway for Scotland.

Partners

BE-ST