Construction & Engineering Apprenticeships

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 1 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 1 as well as, attempting the Level 2 Maths & English exams.

Qualification outcomes

Level 2 NVQ in Bricklaying

Job Role

Bricklayer

Overview of role

The construction sector is the driving force behind the UK economy, employing three million people and contributing 6.4% of GDP. Not only that, the construction industry is central to delivering the homes, schools, hospitals, energy and transport infrastructure our society demands. A career in the construction industry is like no other. Bricklaying is a core function within the construction sector, particularly the house building sector. The Government has a target to build significantly more new homes over the coming years and therefore the demand for bricklayers has never been higher.

Bricklayers lay bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures eg chimney stacks. They might also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects. The range of sites and projects that bricklayers will work on include large commercial developments, new builds in housing, alterations, extensions and restorations. A bricklayer may work one-on-one or on larger jobs where their bricklaying group (gang) may work on a particular section of a building alongside other bricklaying gangs as well as other trades.

Progression

Upon completion learners could become a construction site supervisor, or move into related areas like estimating or apprentice training. They could also specialise in heritage work, stonemasonry, or set up their own business.

Link to professional registration

On completion of this Apprenticeship, the apprentice will have satisfied the requirements to obtain a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Card at the appropriate level

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 1 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 1 as well as, attempting the Level 2 Maths & English exams.

Qualification outcomes

Level 2 in Carpentry & Joinery

Job Role

Architectural Joiner, Site Carpenter

Progression

Learners could look at progression in this role and similar opportunities, or become a site supervisor or construction project manager. Completing the Level 3 apprenticeship or even starting their own business.

Overview of role

This occupation is found in both the new build and refurbishment construction sector. The construction industry is central to creating the homes, schools, hospitals, energy and transport infrastructure society needs. There is growing demand for carpenters and joiners to help meet the need for new homes.

The broad purpose of the occupation is working with building materials (most often wood) to create and install building components. This typically involves shaping and cutting materials, installing finished materials like partitions, doors, staircases, window frames, mouldings, timber floor coverings and erecting structural components such as floor joists and roofs. All work needs to be carried out safely, using the appropriate tools and to the quality specified.

This occupation includes two different options and people will either work on a construction site as a Site Carpenter or in a workshop as an Architectural Joiner.

A Site Carpenter will prepare and install basic building components e.g. doors, straight staircases, wall and floor units and erecting structural carpentry and roof structures on a building site or in domestic and commercial premises.

An Architectural Joiner will produce building components by setting out, marking out and manufacturing basic architectural products, including doors, windows, straight staircases and associated ironmongery.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other construction trades such as bricklayers, plasterers and plumbers, supervisors, site management, architects, designers, contractors and customers. A Site Carpenter would generally liaise with other trades such as bricklayers, plasterers and plumbers, supervisors, site management and contractors. Architectural joiners would liaise with other workshop colleagues and supervisors as well as architects, designers and customers. An employee in either option of this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, under supervision, using machinery and/or tools to create structures or components from designs, plans and specifications that meet the client’s expectations.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, under supervision, using machinery and tools to create structures or components from the designs, plans and specifications of architects and designers that meet the clients expectations. On site these could include roof structures, floors, partitions and second fix work such as door frames and skirting. As an architectural joiner, they could include doors, windows and stairs, including all ironmongery.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 2 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 2.

Qualification outcomes

Level 3 in Advanced Carpentry & Joinery

Job Role

Advanced Architectural Joiner, Advanced Site Carpenter

Overview of role

This occupation is found in both the new build and refurbishment construction sector. The construction industry is central to creating the homes, schools, hospitals, energy and transport infrastructure society needs. There is growing demand for carpenters and joiners to help meet the need for new homes.

The broad purpose of the occupation is working with building materials (most often wood) to create and install building components. This typically involves shaping and cutting materials, installing finished materials like partitions, doors, staircases, window frames, mouldings, timber floor coverings and erecting structural components such as floor joists and roofs. All work needs to be carried out safely, using the appropriate tools and to the quality specified.

This occupation includes two different options and people will either work on a construction site as an Advanced Site Carpenter or in a workshop as an Advanced Architectural Joiner:

Advanced Site Carpenters work on building sites in the construction of domestic and commercial properties, preparing and installing complex and bespoke building components. They prepare, construct and erect irregular and complex roof structures.

Advanced Architectural Joiners are employed in a workshop producing complex building components by setting out, marking out and producing

assembled components requiring advanced skilled work including the full range of woodworking machines. There will sometimes be a need for refurbishment/repair work of bespoke pieces. They have an in-depth knowledge of a range of manufacturing components from a range of hardwoods and softwoods.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation liaises with other construction trades such as bricklayers, plasterers and plumbers, supervisors, site management, architects, designers, contractors and customers. An Advanced Site Carpenter would generally liaise with other trades such as bricklayers, plasterers and plumbers, site management and contractors. Advanced Architectural Joiners would liaise with other workshop colleagues as well as architects, designers and customers.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, sometimes supervising others, using machinery and tools to create or refurbish/repair structures or components from the designs, plans and specifications of architects and designers that meet the client’s expectations. Having attained this level, they will be competent to progress further in the industry as team leaders, trade forepersons, contract or works managers.

Progression

Learners could look at progression in this role and similar opportunities, or become a site supervisor or construction project manager, or even starting their own business.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will identify any relevant entry requirements in terms of previous qualifications, trainability tests, or other criteria. Most candidates will have English and mathematics at level 2 on entry.

Qualification outcomes

Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification

Job Role

Installation electrician, Maintenance electrician and Electrician

Overview of role

Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems in industrial, commercial and domestic environments. Electricians might work in both indoor and outdoor settings. Electrical equipment and systems may include switchboards, motors, cables, fuses, thermal relays, fault current protection switches, heating, lighting, air conditioning and metering equipment as well as crime and fire alarm systems and renewable energy technologies. They are able to work on their own proficiently and work without immediate supervision in the most efficient and economical manner.

They may contribute to the design of electrical systems. They are able to set out jobs from drawings and specifications and requisition the necessary installation materials.

Electrical safety is an important area of Electricians’ work. On completion of their work the electrical systems must be safe to use. They must adhere to safe working practices without endangering themselves or others.

Installation Electricians work on the installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of low voltage (less than 1000v) electrical and electronic devices and appliances.

Maintenance Electricians work on the maintenance of electrical and electronic installations including automated production systems. Duties include the supervision of the equipment, its maintenance and necessary repairs.

Progression

Learners could move into electrical design engineering, site or project management, estimating or electrical contracts work as well as, set up their own business or train apprentices.

Link to professional registration

By the end of the apprenticeship the candidate will have satisfied the requirements for registration as Eng Tech by the Engineering Council.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 1 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 1 as well as, attempting the Level 2 Maths & English exams.

Qualification outcomes

Level 2 NVQ Mastic Asphalt

Job Role

Mastic Asphalt Spreader, Mastic Asphalter

Overview of role

Apprentices learn the traditional and environmentally sustainable craft of Mastic Asphalting both with their employer and at New City College’s Hackney campus, which is the national centre for mastic asphalt education and training.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to become specialist in applying mastic asphalt on to a wide range of surfaces and structures. The occupation requires knowledge of a unique material that is applied in a molten form, including an understanding of how it is correctly heated and agitated so that it is transformed from solid into the correct molten condition to be applied. Skills and knowledge must be developed to ensure the apprentice can select the correct tools and resources for use, and prepare surfaces for the effective application of asphalt. It is a skilled hand-craft that requires perfecting a range of techniques to apply asphalt to a variety of surfaces (including vertical, sloping and angled) to achieve proper adhesion; and a waterproof, seamless and smooth finish.

The Mastic Asphalter provides robust, flexible and long-lasting seamless waterproofing and protection to a variety of surfaces – particularly those exposed to the elements e.g. flat roofs; where high levels of footfall require a robust and waterproof finish e.g. balconies and walkways; to create asphalt membranes to ensures water tightness in damp conditions e.g. tanking for basements; and to create robust but aesthetic floor finishes e.g. Terrazzo flooring. In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with Supervisors and Charge-Hands from their own company and colleagues who order materials and facilities. They liaise with site managers, surveyors, and other construction trades taking place alongside their work e.g. scaffolding, brickwork, carpentry. Employers range from SMEs to large national companies.

The work environment is wherever mastic asphalt is laid: roofs; balconies; basements; car parks; paving/bridges; and flooring, with volumes varying from 1 to 1000’s of square metres. The work is predominantly outside and often exposed to the elements. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for ensuring they have the correct materials, tools and facilities to undertake a project, conforming to health, safety and welfare requirements at all times. The employee will receive instruction from a Supervisor including more senior and experienced Mastic Asphalters / Charge-Hands, therefore they have limited autonomy in the workplace. The work place can be residential or commercial in nature, requiring awareness of the needs and safety of people living or working on or adjacent to the working environment. Organisations require the same mastic asphalt craft skills and knowledge. As a result, the skills are transferable across the full range of companies employing Mastic Asphalters.

Progression

Learners could move into setting up their own business or train apprentices, or work towards a more senior role.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 1 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 1 as well as, attempting the Level 2 Maths & English exams.

Qualification outcomes

Level 2 NVQ in Painting & Decorating

Job Role

Painter & Decorator

Overview of role

Painters and Decorators operate in domestic and commercial properties and undertake the decoration and protection of buildings. Properties include houses, schools, offices, hospitals factories and construction sites. Working internally or externally they work individually and/or as part of a team applying water-borne and/or solvent-borne paint coatings and wallcoverings. They have good knowledge of paint coatings and wallcoverings and understand and comply with statutory, safety and environmental requirements. They are responsible for their own work achieving a high-quality finish at the appropriate pace. They are good problem solvers and communicators and are able to interact effectively with colleagues, clients and associated trades.

Progression

Learners could move into setting up their own business or train apprentices, or work towards a more senior role.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements will be determined by individual employers. Typically, apprentices will have English and Mathematics at level 2 on entry.

Qualification outcomes

Level 3 NVQ Plumbing & Heating

Job Role

Plumber, Domestic Heating Engineer Domestic Heating Installer, Plumbing and Domestic Heating Installer, Plumbing and Domestic Heating Engineer

Overview of role

Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technicians plan, select, install, service, commission and maintain all aspects of plumbing and heating systems. Plumbing and domestic heating technicians can find themselves working inside or outside a property. Customer service skills and being tidy and respectful are important qualities as they can often find themselves working in customers’ homes as well as on building sites.

As a competent Plumbing and Heating Technician, the installation of plumbing and heating systems includes accurate measuring, marking, cutting, bending and jointing metallic and non-metallic pipework. Appliances and equipment can include gas, oil and solid fuel boilers as well as pumps, heat emitters, bathroom furniture or controls as part of a cold water, hot water, and central heating or above ground drainage and rainwater systems. Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technicians are at the forefront of installing new and exciting environmental technologies like heat pumps, solar thermal systems, biomass boilers and water recycling systems. It is important for a plumbing and heating technician to be able to work independently or as a team and use their knowledge and skills to ensure that both the system and appliances are appropriately selected and correctly installed, often without any supervision, and done so in a safe, efficient and economical manner to minimise waste.

Progression

Learners could at progression in this role and similar opportunities, develop skills by taking further training in areas like heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, and renewable energy technologies like solar powered heating. They can also join the Gas Safe Register or get certified with the Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC). They could go on to study for a higher national diploma or degree and become an engineer. This could lead to career options in building services engineering, estimating and contract management.

Link to professional registration

By the end of this apprenticeship the candidate will have satisfied the requirements for registration as EngTech by the Engineering Council through The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) and or The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).

On completion of the health and safety assessment, as determined, by the assessment plan the candidate will have satisfied the requirements to obtain a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Card through the Joint Industry Board for Plumbing and Mechanical Engineering Services (JIB-PMES) at the appropriate grade.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. Most candidates will have Level 1 Maths and English, ideally as part of 5 GCSE A-C grades or equivalent. Other relevant or prior experience may also be considered as an alternative. Those without Maths and English will need to complete these alongside their course at Level 1 as well as, attempting the Level 2 Maths & English exams.

Qualification outcomes

Level 2 NVQ in Wall & Floor Tiling

Job Role

Wall tiler, Floor tiler, Ceramic tiler

Overview of role

Wall and Floor Tilers operate in domestic and commercial properties undertaking all types of wall and floor tiling. Premises include houses, schools, offices, airports hospitals, factories and construction sites. The is varied work; tilers utilise and install a wide range of ceramic and natural stone tiles using different techniques. Tilers work both internally and externally; they work individually and/or as part of a team. They have a good knowledge of tiles, backgrounds and ancillary products and understand and comply with statutory, safety and environmental requirements. They are good problem solvers and communicators and are able to interact effectively with colleagues, clients and associated trades. The tiler must also be able to interpret drawings and be able to extract relevant information to the task in hand. The tiler must be able to recognise and achieve high levels of quality in their finished work.

Progression

Learners could look at progression in this role and similar opportunities. With experience/training they could become a site supervisor clerk of works, estimator or contract manager, as well as, working as a trainer or assessor.

Entry requirements

Key topics

How is the student assessed?

Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours are assessed by the Independent End Point Assessment. This is an external assessment made up of a Practical Skills Observation and a Professional discussion.

Why study with us?

Studying with us offers a range of benefits, including interactive classes and regular contact with staff. Our programmes are taught by industry experts and you’ll benefit from their insight, experience and support as they help to prepare you for your future career.

Where does this course lead?

Apprentices who successfully complete this apprenticeship can progress on to a Level 3 Engineering Apprenticeship or progress in to a full time role as a: Servicing and maintenance operative; Machine setter/operative; Mechanical engineering operative; Fabricator; Engineering fitter; Multi-disciplined engineering operative; Materials, processing and finishing operative, Technical Support operative, founding/casting operative.

Further Information

If you do not currently have an employer who will support you on your apprenticeship journey, we have some vacancies that may be of interest to you. For more information please email Apprenticeships@ncclondon.ac.uk

Entry requirements

Must be employed in relevant field to apprenticeship

GCSE Maths grade 2 or Functional Skill Level 1

GCSE English grade 2 of Functional Skill at Level 1

Course description

Welders are responsible for the production of welds using manual and mechanised arc welding processes to sector standards. They will weld using a minimum of two weld process and material combinations, with at least one process being manual welding. Apprenticeship training blends hands-on training with classroom instruction.

Key topics

The Level 2 Welder Apprenticeship covers key topics essential for developing foundational welding skills, including:

• Welding Techniques: Basic methods like MIG, and MMA (manual metal arc) welding.
• Health and Safety: Workplace safety regulations, protective equipment, and safe working practices.
• Metalwork Fundamentals: Properties of different metals and materials, and how to prepare and handle them.
• Blueprint Reading: Interpreting technical drawings and welding symbols.
• Welding Processes: Understanding welding positions, joints, and the correct procedures for different applications.
• Quality Control: Inspection, testing, and ensuring weld integrity.

How is the student assessed?

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for. The three assessment methods are Multiple Choice Test, Practical Assessment with questions and an Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.

Why study with us?

Studying with us offers a range of benefits, including interactive classes and regular contact with staff. Our programmes are taught by industry experts and you’ll benefit from their insight, experience and support as they help to prepare you for your future career.

Progression

The Level 2 Welder Apprenticeship serves as a foundational pathway into a career as a professional welder. After completing this apprenticeship, individuals typically have several options:

• Entry-Level Welding Jobs: Individuals can work as junior or entry-level welders in industries like construction, manufacturing, automotive, and shipbuilding.
• Further Training: Apprentices can progress to a Level 3 Welder Apprenticeship, which offers higher-level skills and specialised welding techniques, leading to more advanced roles.
• Career Development: With experience, welders may move into roles such as welding supervisor, quality inspector, or pursue certifications for specialised welding fields.

Further Information

Apprentices will attend college one day per week and work the remaining 4 days per week.

Entry Requirements

Must be employed in relevant field to apprenticeship

GCSE Maths grade 4 or Functional Skill Level 2

GCSE English grade 4 of Functional Skill at Level 2

Course Description

The Maintenance Operations Engineering Technician Apprenticeship equips apprentices with the skills to maintain and repair engineering systems and equipment across various industries, including manufacturing, utilities, and transport. Over 3-4 years, apprentices gain hands-on experience in electrical, mechanical, and fluid power systems, while also learning about diagnostics, fault finding, and preventive maintenance. The course covers health and safety, technical drawing interpretation, and effective communication. By the end of the apprenticeship, participants will be fully qualified to work as multi-skilled technicians, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of machinery and engineering systems.

Key Topics

The Maintenance Operations Engineering Technician Apprenticeship covers a broad range of key topics, including:

• Health and Safety: Best practices and regulations to ensure safe working environments.
• Maintenance Techniques: Preventive and corrective maintenance for mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems.
• Diagnostics and Fault-Finding: Identifying, troubleshooting, and resolving issues with engineering equipment.
• Engineering Drawings: Reading and interpreting technical drawings, plans, and schematics.
• Mechanical Systems: Maintenance and repair of mechanical components like gears, bearings, and drives.
• Electrical Systems: Working with electrical circuits, motors, and control systems.
• Fluid Power: Maintaining hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Communication Skills: Effective reporting, teamwork, and collaboration in engineering environments.

How is the student assessed?

The end point assessment (EPA) is undertaken by an independent assessment organisation at the end of the programme and assesses the knowledge, skills and behaviours developed throughout the programme. The EPA consists of a knowledge assessment, a practical observation and a technical interview based upon an evidence portfolio.

Why study with us?

Studying with us offers a range of benefits, including interactive classes and regular contact with staff. Our programmes are taught by industry experts and you’ll benefit from their insight, experience and support as they help to prepare you for your future career.

Progression

The Maintenance Operations Engineering Technician Apprenticeship leads to several career and educational opportunities:

• Skilled Technician Roles: Graduates can work as multi-skilled maintenance technicians, ensuring the smooth operation of mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, energy, and transportation.
• Specialised Roles: With experience, apprentices can specialise in areas like electrical maintenance, mechanical engineering, or automation.
• Further Education: Apprentices can pursue higher-level qualifications, such as HNCs, HNDs, or a Level 4/5 apprenticeship in advanced engineering or management.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for progression to supervisory, engineering manager, or reliability engineer roles.

Entry Requirements

Must be employed in relevant field to apprenticeship

GCSE Maths grade 4 or Functional Skill Level 2

GCSE English grade 4 of Functional Skill at Level 2

Course Description

This apprenticeship focuses on developing skills in mechanical, electrical, and control systems across automated environments. Over 3-4 years, apprentices gain hands-on experience in installing, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, with training in robotics, PLCs, hydraulics, and pneumatics. Emphasis is placed on diagnostics, problem-solving, and ensuring system efficiency. The course also covers health and safety, technical documentation, and communication skills. Upon completion, apprentices are prepared to work as mechatronics technicians, supporting engineering systems in industries like manufacturing, automation, and aerospace.

Key Topics

Key topics covered within this apprenticeship are:

• Mechatronics Systems: Integration and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
• Automation and Robotics: Working with automated systems, robots, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
• Diagnostics and Problem-Solving: Fault finding, troubleshooting, and maintaining system efficiency.
• Hydraulics and Pneumatics: Maintaining and repairing fluid power systems.
• Mechanical and Electrical Principles: Understanding components like motors, sensors, and actuators.
• Health and Safety: Ensuring compliance with industry safety standards.
• Technical Documentation: Reading, interpreting, and creating technical drawings and reports.
• Communication Skills: Working within teams and liaising with engineers and management.

How is the student assessed?

Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours are assessed by the Independent End Point Assessment, towards the end of the apprenticeship. This is an external assessment made up of a Practical Observation, Knowledge test, professional discussion and a portfolio.

Why study with us?

Studying with us offers a range of benefits, including interactive classes and regular contact with staff. Our programmes are taught by industry experts and you’ll benefit from their insight, experience and support as they help to prepare you for your future career.

Progression

The Engineering Technician Apprenticeship opens up several career and further education opportunities:

• Mechatronics Technician Roles: Apprentices can work as mechatronics technicians, maintaining and troubleshooting automated systems in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and robotics.
• Technical Support Technician Roles: Apprentices can work as part of a team to provide technical support and expertise for all areas of the Engineering and Manufacturing function including communications software, test, off line programming, process control, performance and continuous improvement solutions, capacity planning, production scheduling, product technical application and capability, quality control and/or inspection.
• Specialist Engineering Roles: Apprentices can progress into specialised roles in automation, robotics, or control systems engineering.
• Higher-Level Qualifications: Opportunities for further education include pursuing higher apprenticeships, HNCs, HNDs, or degrees in engineering disciplines.
• Career Advancement: With experience, individuals can move into senior roles like team leader, engineering supervisor, or control systems engineer, or pursue engineering management roles.