Should you take a construction apprenticeship?

A construction apprenticeship is diverse to accommodate all interests, run from GCSE to degree level, and has the potential to result in a fulfilling and well-paying profession. Explore more information in this article!

1. What is a construction apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a type of education that combines practical ‘on-the-job’ training with classroom learning. Construction apprentices pursue their education while working part-time for a business. A construction apprentice receives a pay during their program. At the conclusion of the course, they will have obtained a nationally recognized qualification as well as all the necessary experience.

Construction sector apprenticeships are highly lucrative trades and pathways to management and leadership. Apprenticeships in construction and building will equip you with all the skills and knowledge required for a successful career.

An apprenticeship is a salaried position with an employer that includes formal training and a credential. Due to the fact that you are also pursuing a degree relating to your field of employment, your first compensation is reduced but never falls below the minimum wage. A construction apprenticeship is a good opportunity to develop work skills, train for a credential that employers will appreciate, and gain intimate knowledge of the field. Over 90% of UK apprentices continue working once their programme is over, and 67% stay with the same business!

>> Read more: A Career in Construction

2. Why do you need to take a construction apprenticeship?

Actually, learning through an apprenticeship is very awesome. About 20% of your time is spent in school, and the remaining 80% is spent working for pay under the guidance of a professional journeyperson who can “teach you the ropes.”

• You acquire valued professional experience
• Learn the skills you need by putting them into practice in a professional environment.
• If you pass your certification exam, you’ll emerge at the end as a certified tradesperson and get paid while you’re doing it.

In essence, you are being paid to learn. How wonderful is that?

3. Kinds of construction apprenticeship

There are plenty of construction apprenticeships offered, so there’s probably one that matches both your educational background and the trade you want to learn:

Intermediate and advanced apprenticeships

Intermediate and advanced construction apprenticeships are a tried-and-true entry point for a variety of positions in the building and construction industry, including:

• Electrician
• Plumber
• Carpenter
• Joiner
• Bricklayer
• Kitchen and bathroom fitter
• Quarry worker
• Boat builder
• Plant operator

In your field, you’ll receive one or more level 2 or level 3 qualifications, such as a diploma or NVQ.

Higher apprenticeships

In the past, many construction occupations required a university degree to be performed. With the rise of the higher apprenticeship, it is now possible to train for these positions—as well as other high-level positions in construction—directly after high school or college. Additionally, you’ll simultaneously work toward higher education certifications.

Construction apprenticeships now provide a path into: 

Civil engineering

Management

Surveying

If you choose this course of action, you will spend roughly one day per week studying for your qualification and the rest of the time putting the theory into practice at work as you absorb knowledge from your coworkers.

You could strive to achieve the following qualifications:

Level 4 NVQ in construction and building services management.

Level 5 foundation degree in professional practice in construction operations management.

Level 5 NVQ in construction operations management.

Higher apprenticeship programs are developed by employers in collaboration with schools and universities to better prepare trainees for the jobs they seek to fill. This indicates that they are highly diverse and uniquely suited to your profession. The course can frequently be modified to fit your interests and strengths. After completing the course, you may be given the chance to upgrade your credentials.

>> Read more: Construction skills

4. Does an apprenticeship need a CSCS card?

A Red CSCS Card will show your employer that you are registered as an apprentice and have the necessary health and safety awareness to operate safely on a construction site. To undertake an apprenticeship in the construction industry, getting an Apprentice Card is very essential.

You can apply for your CSCS Apprentice Card online. You need to provide various pieces of documentation to prove your qualification. These include a scanned copy of your qualification certificate, and the test ID number for your health and safety training course.

To get this qualification certificate, you need to undergo an exam of CITB to examine your knowledge of health and safety at the construction workplace.

Practice for your CSCS exam now with CSCS Online Test.

Apprentice  is valid for four years and six months and cannot be renewed. Therefore, by the time the card expires, the holder should have finished their apprenticeship and should have applied for a skilled CSCS card.

The CSCS Card is extremely recommended because many contractors would only hire those who have it, even though it is not legally required. Since some projects may have limits on them, you could need a CSCS card to work at particular construction sites.

Construction apprenticeships involve much more than sweeping floors and unloading utes. While learning how to build and construct anything, from residential homes to high-rise structures, bridges, or even tunnels, as a building and construction apprentice, you’ll be working (and earning!) in a genuine firm. Once fully qualified, you’ll have a diverse combination of talents and a credential that will allow you to advance wherever you desire in the field.