Construction apprenticeships let you earn a competitive wage while gaining hands-on skills and experience. Learn on the job and build a successful career in this dynamic sector. See below specific apprenticeships in this sector.
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.
