What’s an apprenticeship in building and construction?
Whether you dream of overseeing the construction of a green energy site or an interest in software development, there are plenty of opportunities to carve out a rewarding career with a building and construction apprenticeship.
The ongoing housing shortage in the UK means that the skilled trades and services provided by the building and construction industry are in constant demand. There is also high demand for specialist skills in areas such as renewable energy and infrastructure development. Building and construction apprenticeships can help you develop varied, hands-on experience.
Anna Gates – Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship, EDF
Andrew George – Head of Talent Development Barrett Development
Facts and stats
Who would suit an apprenticeship in building and construction?
With so many possibilities, apprenticeships in the building and construction industry are incredibly popular. Many options are available from entry-level apprenticeships that don’t require any previous qualifications, through to higher level where you could achieve a degree whilst working.
There are over 100 different types of apprenticeships in the construction industry. Apprentices in this industry will learn practical and/or technical skills from tradespeople and professionals covering a broad range of skills from bricklaying to town planning.
When it comes to the size of the organisation, the industry is all-inclusive. You’ll find opportunities at all levels, from local businesses to global construction companies. Some of the larger employers offering apprenticeships in the industry are Amey, Barrett, Bellway, Kier, CITB, Fairview, Laing O’Rourke, McLaren, Redrow, Skanska and even the British Army.
If you’re a team player with good communication skills and you love to be active and outdoors, you might suit a building and construction apprenticeship. Equally if you have a technical and analytical mind you will find a rewarding career in this industry.
Jack Roberts – Level 3 Project Control Apprenticeship, MEH Alliance, Hinkley Point C project
Travis Redfern – Level 3 Digital Engineering Technician Apprenticeship, BYLOR
- Building and construction skills are always in demand.
- You can see the results of your work at the end.
- It’s a versatile industry, with lots of opportunity to move around.
- Higher apprenticeships are long, taking around five and a half years to complete.
- When you work on site, days can be long making study hard to fit in.
- Some roles within construction can be physically demanding.
Why choose an apprenticeship in building and construction?
There’s currently a skills shortage in the building and construction industry and apprenticeships are key to turning this around. As an apprentice, you’ll not only study your chosen subject but will be on site gaining practical experience which will make you highly employable in the future.
I can use my apprenticeship to help influence the future of the country’s infrastructure.
Anna Gate, Apprentice at EDF
As an apprentice, you’ll be supported by experts in the field as you learn the skills needed to carry out the tasks involved in your chosen profession. At the same time, you’ll study towards an industry-specific qualification equipping you with everything you need to excel.
When it comes to both practical and professional skills, the hands-on learning in real-world situations gained from working on multiple projects throughout an apprenticeship is invaluable and will underpin the academic element of your apprenticeship.
Coming into construction is coming into a large and important part of the economy.
Andrew George, Employer at Barratts Homes
How do you start a building and construction apprenticeship?
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