construction apprenticeships Archives

Level 3 Curtain Wall Installer Apprenticeship

April 24, 2023April 24, 2023 by Oliver Herbert

Are you on the lookout for an apprenticeship but aren’t completely sure which specific apprenticeship to apply to? Well the Level 3 Curtain Wall Installer apprenticeship in the construction and built environment industry could be the apprenticeship that you are looking for. The broad point of the apprenticeship is to install curtain wall systems.

Curtain Wall System – What is it and what is it’s purpose?

What is a Curtain Wall system? Curtain wall systems are installed to form all or part of the external envelope of a building. Specifically curtain walling is a non-structural fabricated aluminium cladding system, found on the external walls of large multi-storey buildings. It is a lightweight material that can be glazed, opaque, or include infill panels, and these aluminium systems can be transported and manufactured.

Well I know what a curtain wall system is now, but what’s the purpose of it you may be wondering. Well, curtain wall systems have the primary purpose of keeping air and water out of the building, essentially acting as both a buffer and an insulator. Buildings that have curtain walls will be easier (and more affordable) to maintain, and will last longer in general, as they have this additional protective shield build in.

Curtain Wall Installer – A Day In The Life

Now that you know what a curtain wall system is, let’s go through what a day to day life looks like for someone working as a curtain wall installer in the construction industry.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other members of the installation team, (the nature of the product necessitates a minimum of 2 people and quite often larger teams of 4 or 6 personnel), site managers and/or installation managers, the Client, main contractor and/or architect, design team members, other external envelope contractors, the system supplier and façade consultants. This is usually a site-based occupation and can involve working at extreme heights including the use of specialist access plant to handle and install the products. The installer may work directly for the system fabricator or work for a specialist installation company. The installers will travel to where the work/site is located. This can involve working away for a period of time and staying in local accommodation for the duration of the work programme.

Working hours are generally between 7-8.00 am until 5-6.00 pm but may involve additional hours to maintain the project programme. Sometimes, depending on site access/usage during normal working hours, the installers may be required to work night shifts and weekend shifts.

5 key skills you will need to succeed in this role

Select the correct type and quantity of materials, components and equipment for each task in line with specifications/instructions.

Read and interpret specifications, diagrams, drawings, and work instructions such as BIM; following instructions.

Prepare the work area effectively, making the site safe and ensuring all parties are considered.

Perform dynamic risk assessments, identifying risks and hazards in the workplace and control measures.

Complete tools and equipment checks and adjustments. Use appropriate tools and equipment safely.

Qualifications Needed For This Role

English and Maths – Apprentices without level 2 English and Maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and Maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

Wondering what the duration of a Curtain Wall Installer apprenticeship is?

Typically this apprenticeship will last for 21 months.

Does this sound like an apprenticeship that you could potentially want to do? If the answers yes, then click here to read more information on the Level 3 Curtain Wall Installer Apprenticeship.

If you feel like working in the construction industry is right for you then read our Occupational Map on construction right here.

Are you interested in a range of different apprenticeships and want to see more of what Apprentice Tips has to offer? If so sign up to our email list here, so that you never miss an email on some of the best apprenticeship offerings in the UK.

Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor Apprenticeship

March 6, 2023March 6, 2023 by Katie Jordan

Two construction workers wearing helmets and high visibility jackets are looking out towards a building site.

Have you ever wondered how to get into a career in Construction? Would you like to earn while you learn? Finally, do you have a keen interest in improving your planning, organisation and reporting skills? If you have answered yes to some of these questions, you may find this higher apprenticeship in Construction Site Supervision perfect for you. Read on to find out why.

Who can apply for a Construction Site Supervisor apprenticeship based in the UK?

Currently, employers can set their own entry requirements, meaning that a wide range of people can apply for this course.

5 GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths, English & Science, or a Level 2 apprenticeship are typically required for applicants of this role.

Employers will usually support apprentices to achieve level 2 English and Maths qualifications while on the course, meaning that applicants are not necessarily limited by these criteria – it all depends on the company!

In other words, employers can hire anyone they feel is suitable for the role, given that they have shown a keen interest and have a general understanding of the position. Could this be you?

Anyone who wants to apply for this apprenticeship should expect to be on the course for around 3 years. They should be prepared to work towards the Level 4 qualification in Construction and Built Environment. What does this involve?

What are the key responsibilities of a Construction Site Supervisor apprentice?

Aerial view of a group of construction site supervisors wearing safety gear, standing in the centre of an empty construction site. — A group of construction site supervisors evaluating a building site.

The Construction Site Supervisor apprenticeship involves close work with specialist contractors and workers on construction projects, supervising activities both on building sites and occasionally in office settings.

This role requires a level of professional judgment, as a lot of planning, organisation and project management will be executed by the apprentice. Teamwork and communication are therefore especially important, as the apprentice will be working with a wide variety of colleagues, giving instructions and making recommendations to ensure that construction projects run smoothly.

This apprenticeship will teach you key skills that are beneficial to this industry, in order to complete regular tasks across a range of projects.

In your day to day role as a Construction Site Supervisor apprentice, you will learn how to:

Supervise contractors onsite;

Identify and prevent risk, promoting safe working practices

Implement Construction Technology solutions for different project types

Record/control the progress, cost and quality of construction projects

Control health and safety standards onsite

Minimise the negative impact of construction to the environment

These are just a few of the many key Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) that you can develop while on the apprenticeship. This apprenticeship gives you a chance to showcase innovation by putting new ideas and solutions forward to benefit the projects that you work on.

How is the Construction Site Supervisor apprenticeship assessed?

Two hands typing on a laptop keyboard, completing apprenticeship work. — A Construction Site Supervisor Apprentice completing work digitally for their EPA.

You will also have an opportunity to demonstrate these key KSBs in the End Point Assessment (EPA), at the conclusion of the course.

This will involve:

An online test – this checks you have retained the relevant knowledge to execute this role

Project – an opportunity to demonstrate your skills, technical abilities and knowledge

Professional Discussion – here you have the chance to explain the work you have created. You can verbally showcase your understanding of the course KSBs

After these key assessments have taken place, your final grade will be decided by the EPA organisation.

For more detailed information regarding the EPA, click here.

What career progression opportunities are there for this course?

Having completed your Level 4 qualification, you may be wondering how this apprenticeship can benefit you in the long-term.

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship course, you will earn a Level 4 qualification in Construction and Built Environment. The industry recognise this as Technician Status (or the equivalent) within your role.

From here on, you could progress to a number of new roles. A fully qualified Site Supervisor can earn up to £45k annually, according to government data. You might also be promoted to a Construction Supervisor Manager; experienced workers in this role can earn around £65k per annum.

To progress your learning even further, you could alternatively follow this course with another apprenticeship! For example, the Level 6 Building Control Surveyor programme, in which you are able to achieve a BSc (Hons) Degree in Building Control.

Learn more about the best apprenticeships for you

Evidently, Construction Site Supervision is an excellent career choice, with multiple routes to the progression of your skillset and paycheck!

Taking this apprenticeship course is a fantastic way to establish yourself as a beginner within the Construction industry. You can gain a large amount of new knowledge that can open up many career pathways for you afterwards!

If you would like to stay up to date with the latest Construction Apprenticeships, be sure to check out our weekly posts on apprenticetips.com! We have a dedicated Construction section that you can view here!

You can also reach out to us if you need any advice – simply fill out the form below.

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– ApprenticeTips Team

Level 2 Facilities Service Operative Apprenticeship

January 26, 2023January 26, 2023 by Rita Jno-Baptiste

Level 2 Facilities Service Operative

ApprenticeTips.com

Thinking of doing an apprenticeship? Do you possess strong people skills? Enjoy problem solving and generating ideas and solutions across a range of internal teams and external customers? Want a role that is customer-facing, where no two days are ever the same? Then this level 2 Facilities Service Operative apprenticeship could be for you.

Overview and Requirements For The L2 Facilities Service Operative Apprenticeship – 2 years

The Facilities Service Operative apprenticeship provides support to customers and Facilities Management and can cover a range of responsibilities from security and maintenance through to catering, logistics and cleaning services. This role is typically found in residential developments as well as commercial settings such as schools, hospitals and businesses – its a wide-reaching role with opportunities across many sectors, with job functions such as concierge, facilities assistant and workplace coordinator.

Having great people skills is key. The Facilities Service Operative apprenticeship role encounters colleagues across different departments, such as Finance and Procurement, as well as liaises with technical experts and other Facilities Management-related roles such as security personnel, catering and front-of-house staff. Someone in this role may work in small teams or in large groups of up to 500 people – just depends on the size of the contract. So ability to communicate with people at different levels is a must!

English and Maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships. But don’t be put off, you can still join the apprenticeship and study for your Maths and English GCSEs alongside your apprenticeship – with full support! It’s also required that you complete a Level 2 Facilities Services Principles before finishing your apprenticeship, which will be a core focus.

This standard also aligns with the following profession recognition: Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management for Associate

the word study written across 5 dices - each letter per dice

Main Responsibilities:

Support delivery of health and safety procedures
Provide effective customer service to internal and external customers
Maintain soft services (cleaning & catering etc)
Gather information to enable continuous improvement to services
Deliver front-of-house facilities
Support hard functions (engineering and maintenance etc)
Maintain and develop competence in the FM industry/sector
Support the delivery of FM projects

To help you succeed in your apprenticeship, you’ll be measured across a range of competencies which will not only challenge you, but equip you with the knowledge and skills that are required to help you advance in this role.

Wrap-Up

This Level 2 Facilities Service Operative apprenticeship offers a great opportunity to learn on the job, gaining valuable insight into a career in facilities and site management that you wouldn’t have access to if you went down the traditional education route – and you get paid! Throughout your two-year course you’ll learn a range of core skills including:

Team work
Personal effectiveness
Attention to detail
Adaptability
Managing range of customers

Finally…

…any questions? Want to know more? Visit us at ApprenticeTips where you can learn more about this role along with a wide range of other apprenticeships on offer. Or, reach out to us on LinkedIn or Twitter (don’t forget to share with friends and family).

Surveying Technician Apprenticeship Level 3

December 22, 2022 by Toni McClelland

Looking to kick start your career in the construction industry? If so, read on to find out how this level 3 surveying technician apprenticeship could help you advance your skills and knowledge to build a future. However, if you are currently undergoing an apprenticeship, you could change roles within your current organisation and complete the apprenticeship training.

Role, Responsibilities and Entry Requirements

The occupations covered by this standard are associated with surveying technicians acting on behalf of clients or employers in an assistant capacity. The primary role of a Survey Technician is to collect information from site inspectors and inform advice to clients on land, property and construction. As a surveying technician you will have a good understanding of construction plans, data management and work face to face with clients. You can expect to undergo the following as your key responsibilities:

Firstly, to collect information from inspections or visits to buildings, land and construction sites
To take appropriate measurements of buildings, land or plans
Meet with other professionals, clients, customers and others to obtain and provide information relating to land, property or construction
To collect and record data relating to land, buildings or construction for technical use
Manage work tasks relating to the area of practice
To undertake costings and/or measurements and/or valuations using data collected from research
Finally, to ensure a safe working environment for themselves and others

If this all sounds too good to be true, then today is your lucky day! Entry requirement for the apprenticeship are typically 5 (or more) GCSEs at grade C or higher including Maths and English. Although, a Level 2 apprenticeship in a construction or property related discipline can also be considered. An employer is looking for the right candidate, this could vary regardless of educational background. The apprenticeship is accessible to everyone and gives them a chance to succeed on this course. Don’t have up to date English and Maths certificates? We’ve got you covered, all candidates will have the opportunity to complete this if needed as part of the apprenticeship.

Level 3 Surveying Technician Requirements

As part of your apprenticeship and job role, you will complete your key responsibilities to achieve a number of core requirements in terms of Knowledge, Skills and all Behaviours. In addition to this, you will also have to achieve two optional requirements from both Skills and Knowledge. These can be achieved through various projects within your job role that could vary and change overtime and can include:

Knowledge: In relation to Land, Property and Construction

Law
Data Collection
Economics
Health and Safety
Sustainability
Construction Technology
Personal Effectiveness

Skills: In regards to the Surveying Environment

Data Collection and Analysis
Health and Safety
Construction Technology
Law
Personal Effectiveness

Behaviours:

Provide a High Standard of Service
Act in a way that Promotes Trust in the Surveying Profession
Act with Integrity
Treat Others with Respect
Take Responsibility

Evidently, more detailed information regarding the course and current assessments can be found in the Surveying Technician Assessment Plan

Conclusion

As I have shown, jumping into the construction industry has never been easier. This level 3 surveying technician apprenticeship covers core skills and will open up a wide range of job opportunities across this sector. In addition to this, you take a look at Engineering and Manufacturing Apprenticeships if you feel this route is not exactly what you are looking for. Again, employers are keen to shape how their employees work and learn through apprenticeships and provide them with progression opportunities.

Furthermore, additional information on progression opportunities within apprenticeships, check out our Occupational Maps that outline recognised pathways for apprenticeships and T Levels.

Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiler Apprenticeship

October 18, 2022October 18, 2022 by Kimmy Kwatia

Image of tiler scraping ceramic onto scalper

Apprenticeships are an alternative route to university, as well as a way to kick-start your career in a certain industry. Apprenticeships are continuing to grow and expand, with up to Level 7 degree apprenticeships now available, and in many different fields, such as the Construction industry.

What is a Wall & Tiler Apprenticeship?

The Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiler Apprenticeship offers you the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the craft, whilst learning and earning at the same time. Wall & Floor Tilers are responsible for operating in both commercial and domestic properties undertaking all types of wall and floor tiling using different techniques and materials desired by the client. Tilers have great knowledge of their craft, different tiling methods and techniques, and are able to meet client requirements.

With the Wall & Tiler apprenticeship, you will have to complete a portfolio over the duration of the programme to demonstrate your competencies as well as training towards your English and Maths if required. You will also have to complete a theory-based test to ensure you have the required knowledge needed as a Wall & Floor Tiler. Once these are completed, you will then have your end point assessment which will consist of a knowledge test, a practical observation, and an interview conducted by an external examiner underpinned by your portfolio which you have provided. Once this process is done, you will then be awarded one of the follow grades: Fail, Pass or Distinction.

Image of tiler placing ceramic wall tile in position over adhesive with lash tile leveling system

What skills do Tilers need?

Tilers often work independently and as part of a team, depending on the scale of the project, and therefore must be effective communicators and able to work well in both environments, therefore, communication and team-working skills are key. Tilers must also be able to have good knowledge of the different safety and environmental regulations they must comply with, as well as have good knowledge of their craft,which you will gain if you decide to undertake an apprenticeship. Furthermore, tilers must be excellent problem solvers, and must be able to follow briefs and interpret drawings in order to execute a clients’ vision.

According to the apprenticeship standard, these are the behaviours that are expected to be demonstrated by a wall & floor tiler;

Able to take responsibility of the safety of themselves and others around them
Must be reliable with a great work ethic, motivated, and able to adapt to changing environments and circumstances
Must be customer-centric
Must be meticulous, demonstrating attention to detail, quality, and always striving for improvement
Should have good industry knowledge and be aware of the business missions and goals
Able to work effectively independently and as part of a team

What is the learning specification as a Level 2 Tiler?

The Level 2 Wall & Floor Apprenticeship usually lasts a duration of 30-36 months, in which apprentices will be learning the knowledge and understanding needed to qualify as a tiler, as well as the practical skills required. The different work methods that will be taught are;

Work Methods – to ensure you are working safely to protect yourself and those around you, such as identifying hazards and risks in the workplace.
Identify and respond to customer needs – to understand different types of communications and the different methods needed to meet customer requirements.
Construction industry – key factors and systems of work appropriate to different work environments.
Building methods – to identify different building methods and choose the appropriate method of preparation and fixing based on the work environment.
Production and specification information – able to make appropriate judgements based on the environment of what methods and materials to use, as well as advising clients when necessary.
Preparation, application and removal – understanding different preparation, application, and removal methods and when best to use them.

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Level 3 – Refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering technician

October 18, 2022October 18, 2022 by Rikhil Lakhani

Do you have an interest in the Construction industry? Preferably with a focus in refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering technician? This Level 3 Apprenticeship will provide you with understanding how to plan, prepare and safely carry out work in process, product and space cooling. This is a 36 month program with the EQA Provider as Ofqual.

Entry Requirements

You should have English or Maths at Level 2 or above, however if not, your employer should ensure you achieve this before the completion of the apprenticeship.

Mandatory qualifications

All apprentices must achieve a “Level 2 Certificate in F Gas and ODS Regulations Category 1” as this is a legal requirement under the EU F Gas Regulation 517/2014 to work on equipment containing Fluorinated Refrigerants.

What could you be doing?

The design, installation, routine maintenance, reactive service, commissioning and de-commissioning of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump systems. Technicians require a thorough competency in their understanding of the engineering principles of thermodynamics and the vapour compression cycle in order to perform operations. A fully competent technician works without immediate supervision, and liaises effectively with other trades and with end users.

What knowledge is required?

Understanding of relevant UK and international standards, technical and environmental legislation including health & safety, environmental protection, working with pressure systems, electrical circuits and flammable substances.
Familiarising yourself with industry Codes of Practice and other sources of up to date information and advice on technical safety and legislative aspects of their work.
A comprehensive understanding of principles of thermodynamics, gas laws, psychrometrics, fluid flow, electricity, properties of refrigerant fluids and lubricants.
Ability to understand relevant diagrams, calculations, tools, charts, tables and formulae and apply them as appropriate.
A strong understanding of the function and operation of system components and how they interact in a range of different systems and applications.
Knowledge of environmental impact of refrigerants, maximising efficient system performance and mitigation of direct and indirect carbon emissions.
Understanding of environmental technologies such as heat recovery, low GWP refrigerants, and other equipment which can be used to reduce heat gain, cooling load or energy use.

What skills are required?

Installation, commissioning, testing, fault diagnostics, rectification of systems, component/refrigerant suitability and selection
Working with pressure systems and electrical circuits and systems
Evaluating and mitigating risks of refrigerants including toxicity, flammability and other potential risks or hazards to self and the general public.
Decommissioning, safe recovery and disposal of equipment and hazardous waste transfer
Electrical and electronic control systems setting, testing and fault finding; and their integration with system-associated communication networks.
Positioning, fixing, jointing and testing of pipework, electrical circuits and water circuits where relevant.
Determining heating and cooling loads and selecting and balancing appropriate components and systems for maximum performance and efficiency.
Using system operating parameters for efficient performance to achieve measurable and sustained reductions in carbon emissions.
Routine and reactive service and maintenance, testing, fault finding, reporting and rectification.
Retrofitting and retrofilling of existing equipment to lower GWP refrigerants including safety, reliability and environmental considerations.

What behaviours are required?

Disciplined approach to assessing, managing, mitigating and avoiding risk in a variety of situations to themselves, colleagues, the public and the environment.
Positive ethical attitude and behaviours including reliability, willingness to take responsibility. Commitment to completing tasks and ability to work as part of a multidisciplined team.
Employs logical thinking, and determined attitude to problem solving and technical challenges.
A strong Attention to detail, following procedures, planning and preparation and verifying compliance.
Takes responsibility for work and interactions with colleagues, customers, suppliers or subcontractors.
Uses a range of communications methods effectively, positively and in timely fashion.
Able to adapt to changes in conditions, technologies, situations and a wide variety of different working environments.
Willingness to learn and commitment to professional development and to applying principles of sound engineering and sustainability of engineering systems.

Conclusion

Completing this Level 3 Qualification, you will build the foundations for a successful career and eventually work towards being a; Refrigeration Technician/Engineer, Air Conditioning Technician/Engineering, Heat pump Technician/Engineer, Service Technician/Engineer, Maintenance Technician/Engineer or Commissioning Engineer. You can find more information via the apprenticeship standard document.

If you have any questions or queries regarding this apprenticeship or any others, feel free to reach out to us via our LinkedIn, Twitter or Website!

Gas Engineering operative (Level 3 apprenticeship)

October 14, 2022October 14, 2022 by Collette Pratt

Are you interested in finding a hands-on role within the construction industry but don’t have the right qualifications? A Level 3 Gas engineering operative apprenticeship could be a great option for you. By taking part in our Gas engineering operative apprenticeship, you’ll get first-hand experience while getting paid. As well as this, you’ll gain a Level 3 qualification at the end of it.

What Is a Gas Engineering Operative?

When thinking about the role of a Gas Engineering Operative, most people immediately associate this with people who install and repair their gas boilers. While this is a part of the role, there is also much more to it.

A career in gas engineering is very varied, and with the right training Gas Engineers can handle much more than installing and repairing gas boilers and heating systems. Gas engineers can work for a construction company, or be self-employed, meaning that this lucrative career path opens a lot more opportunities for them and puts their earning potential in their own hands.

What does the role entail?

A Gas engineer has a very varied role day-to-day, so is a great route for someone looking for a career where no day is the same! Day to day duties can include the safe installation, commission, decommission and the ongoing service and repair of gas appliances in either a domestic or non-domestic setting. Roles in gas engineering are physical in nature, and may involve lifting and moving of equipment, working at heights and working in confined spaces, making it the perfect role for individuals looking for a role which is physically challenging.

They will be responsible for Health and safety of others and will undertake rigorous risk assessments. You will also confidently deliver a polite, courteous, professional service to all customers and members of the public whilst safeguarding customer welfare and recognizing vulnerability, equality and diversity

The Gas Engineering operative will carry out safe isolation essential electrical safety checks and undertake the necessary safety checks following Gas work on an appliance (regulation 26/9. They will work in compliance with statutory and normative documentation including building regulations, water regulations and electrical regulations.

The successful Gas engineering operative will demonstrate tightness testing, purging and relight procedures on gas installations, and demonstrate pipework installations/pipework skills, pressure and flow/pipework sizing, meter installations. They will Identify faults and take the appropriate action and undertake the installation and/or repair and maintenance of appliances. The successful Gas operative will demonstrate tightness testing, purging and relight procedures on gas installations, and demonstrate pipework installations/pipework skills, pressure and flow/pipework sizing, meter installations.

To find out more about the day-to-day role of a Gas Engineering operative within the construction industry, check out this article

A man (Gas Engineering Operative) in a yellow helmet wiring an electrical appliance on a grey wall

What are the requirements for the Gas Engineering operative Apprenticeship?

Applicants will normally have gained a minimum of 3-5 GCSEs (grade A-C) or equivalent, preferably English, mathematics and a science or relevant / appropriate experience. Apprentices without level 2 English and mathematics will need to achieve this level prior to taking the end point assessment

Recognize personal and professional limitations and seek appropriate advice when necessary
Display self-discipline and self-motivated approach
Exercise responsibilities in an ethical manner
Be willing to learn new skills and put yourself out of your comfort zone

This apprenticeship will last 18 months and will require a mixture of hands on and theory work, so someone willing to commit to 18 months of on-the-job learning is essential.

In achieving a pass or a distinction in this apprenticeship, the successful apprentice will be eligible to apply for membership with the Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers (IGEM) professional registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech)

The Bottom line

A career in gas engineering is a great opportunity for people looking for a hands on, challenging role that is highly respected within the Construction industry. You can find out more about the Gas engineering operative role at The Institute for apprenticeships and Technical Education

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Level 2 Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative

October 14, 2022October 14, 2022 by Sanaa Choudhry

This Intermediate highway electrical maintenance and installation operative apprenticeship standard will provide you with a level 2 qualification.

Does being part of a team in a constructive and positive way interest you? if it does, then this could be the start of your journey to being an Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative.

What is required for you to start your journey?

Entry requirements can vary between employers but on average Apprentices must have a Level 1 English and Maths qualification, as well as complete a Level 2 in both of these subjects before their end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and for those whose primary language is BSL, a British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is accepted in place of any English qualifications.

Duration: The typical duration of this Apprenticeship is 24 months for achievement of competence in the sub-sector your choose.

Must have core skills to help you on your way.

Understanding the employer’s health and safety and environmental requirements and procedures
Understanding the employer’s requirements and identifying what work is required, what their responsibilities are and what plant, equipment, tools and materials are required.
Good interpersonal and team working abilities when communication internally and with clients

What about industry specific skills?

Ability to identify and practically reference common types of highway electrical equipment and the underlying principles of how these are installed and maintained (e.g. street lights, traffic signals, traffic signs, safety cameras) – together with detailed specialised understanding on the chosen sub- sector(s).
Understanding the employer’s requirements and identifying what work is required, what their responsibilities are and what plant, equipment, tools and materials are required.
Understanding the practices of maintenance techniques. These may be routine and regular checks or reactive checks in unexpected circumstances. In both instances, you should have the ability to carry out these checks in a safe and efficient way.
Understanding your employer’s requirements and procedures covering emergency attendance and work, and being able to leverage these to identify hazards and maximise site safety.
BONUS SKILL: Understand how to identify and apply the appropriate systems of surface protection safely and how to dispose of waste appropriately.

Desired Behaviours.

There are three primary attributes and behaviours which are desired if you are looking to complete the Level 2 Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative.

Firstly, always ensure you are promoting a positive Health, Safety and Environmental culture. This means being alert and aware of your surroundings so you are able to identify any risks or hazardous situations. If you do identify a potential risk, you must be confident in reporting unsafe practices and set an example within the workforce on how to work safely. Your priority is that no one – either from the public or within the workforce – is harmed.

It is really important that you are confident in taking responsibility and ownership for your actions, whether they have a positive or negative impact on the workforce. The ability to be able to acknowledge your skill gaps and be engaged in working to improve this is a highly desired behaviour. Not only does this show willingness to grow, but aslo maturity within your role. You must make sure you are cooperating with your employer to ensure you are working to meet expectations and develop to a point of potentially exceeding.

Make an effort to show your enthusiasm, consideration and commitment to the role. Being able to work using your initiative to solve problems, seek out critical information and plan and organise work activities are all important skills.

If you have any questions about the Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative Apprenticeships, or any other information you discover on our website, feel free to reach out to us on Twitter!

Level 4 Civil Engineering senior Technician Apprenticeship

October 13, 2022October 13, 2022 by Anisa Husein

If you are interested in construction, design and planning buildings, then this apprenticeship might just be for you. Find out how you can kick-start your career in the construction field.

Jobs opportunities and the criteria needed to apply for the Apprenticeship.

This apprenticeship can take you into roles such as a senior engineering technician and senior design technician. The average salaries for these roles in the UK is 39K, the highest being up to 44K.

The entry requirements for this apprenticeship:

A pass in GCSE Math’s and English
You can also complete a level 2 English and math’s qualification. This needs to be completed before the end point assessment (EPA).

What to expect in the 36-month program?

There will be a list of responsibilities you will have as an apprentice, and, you will be allocated time to complete these.

Firstly, you will complete a portfolio, this will include all of the evidence of work you have completed and align with various competencies. Secondly, You will complete exams and training sessions to develop your knowledge according to the occupational standards.

Finally, the remaining 4 months of your apprenticeship will consistent of an independent project and interview process. All three will determine the final grade you receive at the end.

Core duties of the Apprenticeship

As part of your apprenticeship, there are a list of duties you will need to demonstrate in your job role, some examples of these are:

Producing solutions to technical problems, by preparing and presenting diagrams and documents, include best industry practice and comply with regulations
Use a range of practical skills learnt from workshops to aid you in supplying materials, equipment, and technologies.
Identify risks in projects you are responsible for and ways to mitigate this.

Conclusion

Based on the information above, this apprenticeship program is a great way to join the construction industry. The competencies you will cover give you the foundations to progress into a range of roles.

For more technical information and depth click on the Occupational standards for Civil engineering. You can also sign-up below to receive emails on the latest news and updates .

Building control surveyor apprenticeship – Level 6

October 12, 2022October 12, 2022 by Enrico Quddus

Looking for an exciting opportunity within the construction sector? Then you might want to consider the Building control surveyor apprenticeship. This is an opportunity to build your career as a building surveyor, read on to find out more.

Overview of the role

This role is not just simple surveying, but also requires an ability to enforce compliance with the Building Act 1984. Becoming a building control surveyor turns you into a third party service to certificate that building work meets the minimum standard of the building regulation through unbiased and fair judgement. This is also to ensure health and safety, as the surveyor needs to be ready to deliver their decisions to customers in a diplomatic and assertive manner.

Building control surveyors analysing a building plan

Core duties of building control surveyor

The core duties and tasks of a Building Control Surveyor include the following:

To ensure a sustainable built environment in compliance with the Building Act 1984.
Evaluating plans, drawings, specifications and other documents submitted for building regulation approval.
Inspecting different types of building work and keeping records of the site visits.
Issuing certificates when the work has been carried out satisfactorily.
Communicating with members of the public, construction professionals, and delivering efficient customer service.
Keeping up to date with current regulations and legislations.
Enforce regulatory compliance in case there is defective construction work on site or demolitions and dangerous structures to ensure public safety.
Taking part in the administrative process of Building Regulation applications.

Entry requirements and Qualifications

The minimum entry requirements for this apprenticeship is three A-levels at grade C or higher. A level 3 apprenticeship qualification in a construction related discipline can also be accepted. Despite this requirements, the end decision to take in the apprentice is dependent on the employer. Apprentices also need to have a level 2 English and Math qualification to enter EPA (final stage of the apprenticeship).

The apprenticeship is estimated to be around 4 years long, excluding the EPA period. Once completed, the apprentice will have successfully achieved a level 6 qualification as a building control surveyor. This achievement also includes a BSc (Hons) degree in Building Control. The successful apprentices will also be eligible to apply for membership of the Chartered Institute of Building and the Institute of Fire Engineers.

Building control surveyor apprentice inspecting a building

The construction industry is an amazing world to build your career in, and applying for a building control surveyor apprenticeship is an exciting way to begin in this line of work. To find out more about this apprenticeship, visit the institute for apprenticeships.

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