The construction industry offers a broad range of opportunities to all. Whether you’re working on site or behind a drawing board, choosing construction means you will shape and build the world.
Construction covers a huge range of jobs, like:
- Building services engineer
- Building surveyor
- Site manager
- Stonemason
- Carpenter
- Civil engineer
The industry’s workforce is ageing and there is demand to fill the skills gap.
If you’re a practical thinker with a knack for technical processes, this industry could be your perfect match.
What's the qualification?
You’ll gain a Foundation Apprenticeship in Construction at either SCQF Level 4 or 5, which is the same level of learning as a National 4 or National 5.
This includes:
- National Progression Award in Construction Skills (SCQF Level 4 or 5)
- Work Based Challenge Unit (SCQF Level 4 or 5)
What will I learn?
Your National Progression Award will cover a variety of units and may include:
- Built environment
- 3D modelling
- Carpentry and bench joinery
- Painting and decorating
You will use the skills and knowledge you develop in your National Progression Award to successfully complete the work-based challenge unit. You will:
- Work closely with an employer
- Deliver your project to a real-life client
- Develop an understanding of the construction sector
Your Foundation Apprenticeship will also help you to develop meta-skills. These skills are highly valued by employers. Meta-skills include:
- Self-management
- Social intelligence
- Innovation
These meta-skills are highly desirable for working in a range of other related jobs.
Where could it take me?
Your Foundation Apprenticeship gives you lots of options: it’s up to you where you go next.
- A Modern Apprenticeship: On completing your Foundation Apprenticeship, you’ll have the knowledge and experience to progress your career through a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF level 5 or SCQF level 6
- Further education: Continue your studies at college with a related subject. Your work-based learning will support your college application.
- Straight to a job: By developing your technical and meta skills, alongside your understanding of industry, you will have the key skills employers want.
How will it work?
You'll complete your Foundation Apprenticeship at school, alongside your other subjects. You'll spend time learning with a provider, such as a college, and with an employer on a practical work project. It'll give your career a head-start, and look great on your CV.
How can I apply?
If you're in S3 to S6, you can do a Foundation Apprenticeship.
If you're interested in studying a Foundation Apprenticeship at level 4 or 5, speak to your guidance teacher or careers adviser to find out what's available in your school.