Construction Trades Apprenticeships
Trowel or Wood Occupations (Bricklaying, Site Carpentry and Bench Joinery)
These apprenticeships are ideal for people who have an interest and aptitude for work in the construction industry. This industry is always looking for people who have undergone high quality and appropriate training that is recognised by employers and supported by awarding bodies alike. You will learn all the practical and technical skills necessary to assist you in your career. The workshop areas within HCT provide excellent facilities where you will be given first class guidance and support from our teaching staff. You will follow a set curriculum but will also be challenged to fully utilise your new developing skills in an informative and interesting way. Our classrooms all have 21st century computerised display equipment; they are bright and well ventilated, all of which will enhance your learning experience during your time with us. The majority of your practical skills training will be delivered in your workplace where your employer will guide and support you in gaining competency in all aspects of your role.
What qualifications will I gain?
There are two levels of apprenticeship available, the Level 2 and the Advanced Level 3. They should take approximately 1-2 years each to complete. The Level 2 must be completed before advancing on to the Level 3.
Apprenticeship (Level 2)
- Level 2 NVQ Diploma in either Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying), Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery - this is the competency element of the qualification and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This relates to your practical skills which are mostly gained with your employer in the workplace.
- Technical Certificate (Diploma) - This will show that you have the technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry.
- Functional Skills - Providing you with a good level of literacy and numeracy. Level 1 English, and Level 1 maths
- ERR (Employers Rights and Responsibilities) - A certificate to demonstrate your understanding and responsibilities as an employee as well as an employer's responsibilities to you as an employee.
- PUWER (abrasive wheels training) - This is delivered to trowel occupation students only
Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3)
You would have already achieved a Level 2 Apprenticeship in order to progress to the Advanced Apprenticeship.
- Level 3 NVQ Diploma - in either Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying), Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery - This is the competency element of the qualification and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This relates to your practical skills which are mostly gained with your employer in the workplace.
- Technical Certificate (Diploma) - This will show that you have the technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry.
- Functional Skills - Providing you with a good level of literacy and numeracy. Level 2 in English and Level 2 in maths.
How will I be trained?
You will have completed your first year full time course in any of the construction trades (Brick, wood, plumbing or electrical), gaining some knowledge and understanding of your specific area. It is not a necessity for you to be employed in your chosen trade during your first year at HCT. However, in order to progress on to the apprenticeship, you will need to be employed for the second year.
Apprenticeships are designed with the assistance of employers in the construction industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job well. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.
Training takes place both on and off-the-job. On-the-job training is all the workplace learning that you undertake with your employer. Off- the-job training is what you do when you are at HCT. College attendance varies from trade to trade but it is usually on either on a day release or block release basis.
How will I be assessed?
Assessments will take place through practical training at college and at the work place as well as via theory which is demonstrated through a portfolio of evidence. Work place assessments are also carried out.
What are the entry requirements?
At present there are no formal entry requirements for apprenticeships in any of the construction trades, although good all round abilities in maths and English are an advantage. In order to progress from the first year full time course onto an apprenticeship you must have an employer. Competition for placements can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you.
Key Facts
Campus: Hereford
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: The first year is usually spent on a full time course. A Level 2 apprenticeship will then take 1-2 years and an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) will take a further 1-2 years.
Typical Employment:
Opportunities include skilled tradesmen/women, contract supervisory roles and site foreman.
Contact: 0800 389 9805
busdev@hct.ac.uk
