Do you want the best first step into a hands-on career? Find out how you can achieve that here.
- Why should I go into construction?
Jobs in construction have been abundant since the dawn of human civilisation, and customers will continue to need them for the foreseeable. Where AI is replacing tens of thousands of other jobs, the construction sector continues to thrive.
Furthermore, there is potential to work your way up the career ladder from knowing absolutely nothing about the industry to running your own construction company. All you need is the aptitude and determination. If you feel like working in a large team, using your hands, and creating something that could last for decades, the construction industry is perfect for you.
- What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a form of technical education where the student spends at least 20% of their time in formal education and the rest learning on-the-job. Additionally, the apprentice pays absolutely nothing towards their training; rather, they secure a steady and decent wage for all their work and training hours.
Apprenticeships provide qualifications that are the same or equivalent to those a student would receive in full-time education. Many employers prefer apprenticeships due to the invaluable work experience the student will gain, along with them only learning useful skills, knowledge and behaviours.
If you would like to find out more, read our guides on what apprenticeships are and some of their benefits .
- What types of apprenticeships are there in construction?
There are currently 105 different construction apprenticeships available. These courses range from Level 2 (equivalent to five grade C-A* GCSEs) all the way up to Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree).
Even better, apprenticeships are currently receiving lots of investment. This means that there will likely be even more options soon.
Some Examples of Construction Apprenticeships
- Intermediate
The level of apprenticeship with the most options in construction is Level 2, otherwise known as Intermediate Apprenticeships. This means that anyone can apply and even if you don’t have your foundational English and Maths skills, your training provider will teach you them as part of the course.
Some general examples include becoming a Roofer, Tramway Construction Operative or Demolition Operative.
- Advanced
The Level 3 apprenticeships (Advanced Apprenticeships) are equivalent to two A-Level passes and provide a greater variety of prospects to the apprentice.
Some general examples include becoming a Military Engineering Construction Technician, a Digital Engineering Technician or a Junior Energy Manager.
- Higher
Higher Apprenticeships are Level 4 or 5 apprenticeships. They are equivalent to a foundation degree and above, but below a bachelor’s degree.
Some general examples include becoming a Construction Design and Build Technician, an Acoustics Technician or a Construction Site Supervisor.
- Degree
These apprenticeships are level 6 and above. They usually lead to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, or an equivalent, although you should check during your application.
Some general examples include receiving a Civil Engineering Site Management degree, an Architect Integrated degree or a Chartered Town Planner degree.
If any of these interest you, you should do some research on our site, which has a wide range of guides for apprentices. Such support includes guidance on who can become an apprentice, and how to apply for an apprenticeship.