Construction is a popular career choice in the United Kingdom (UK), with many people attracted to the industry’s excellent pay and prospects. However, accomplishing that while not knowing the steps to jumpstart your construction career can be challenging. Moreover, it might be challenging if you are not from the country. If you’re thinking of starting a construction career in the UK, here are four steps to help you get started:
Research the UK Construction Industry
The construction industry in the UK is a booming sector with many job opportunities. It can be a great career choice for those interested in working in a hands-on and challenging environment. However, before you decide to pursue a career in construction, it’s essential to do your research and learn about the industry in the UK. The process includes learning about the different types of construction jobs available, the necessary skills and qualifications, and the current trends in the industry.
The best way to learn about the UK construction industry is to read it online or attend industry events. There are also many construction resources available to help you find a job in construction, such as:
- The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB): This is the UK’s national training organization for the construction industry. They offer a variety of resources, including an online job portal, to help people start and develop their careers in construction.
- Hays Construction & Property: Hays is a recruitment agency specializing in finding jobs in the construction and property sector. They have an online job board with construction-related vacancies across the UK.
- The Considerate Constructors Scheme: This UK-based organization promotes considerate and sustainable construction practices. They offer resources and advice for those interested in working in construction and a job board with construction vacancies.
These resources can help you learn everything you need for the UK construction industry, helping you get your career off to a good start.
Find a Construction Apprenticeship
One of the best ways to start a construction career in the UK is by undergoing an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer a great way to learn more about the industry and develop the necessary skills for a successful career. They also provide on-the-job training, which can be very beneficial for those who want to work in construction.
There are many different types of construction apprenticeships available in the UK, so it’s essential to find one that’s right for you. The length of internships can vary, but most last for two to four years. The CITB website has a search tool to help you find an apprenticeship in construction.
Once you’ve found an apprenticeship that interests you, the next step is to apply. This next step usually involves submitting a CV and cover letter and attending an interview. If you are successful, you might receive a place in the apprenticeship program.
Train as an Apprentice and Learn on-the-job Skills
As a construction apprentice, you will learn many on-the-job skills that will help you develop a successful career in the industry. These skills include:
- Working with tools and equipment: You will learn to use various tools and equipment safely and efficiently in a construction setting. This skill is essential as it will allow you to work effectively on site.
- Problem-solving: Construction is a challenging industry, and you will often face problems that need to be solved quickly. As an apprentice, you will learn to solve problems efficiently and effectively.
- Teamwork: Construction is a team-based industry, and you will need to work effectively with others to get the job done. As an apprentice, you will learn to work cooperatively in a team environment.
- Communication: Construction is a noisy environment, and it’s essential to communicate effectively with others to avoid misunderstandings. As an apprentice, you will learn to communicate clearly and effectively in a construction setting.
These are just some of the skills you will learn as a construction apprentice. By acquiring these skills, you will be well-prepared for a successful career in the UK construction industry.
Get Qualifications
To work in the construction industry in the UK, you will need to have some relevant qualifications. The most common requirements are:
- City and Guilds: City and Guilds is a UK-based organization that offers qualifications in various trades and industries, including construction. They offer a variety of construction courses at different levels that can help you develop the construction skills and knowledge you need for a successful career in construction.
- NVQ: NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification, and it’s a qualification specific to the construction industry. There are different levels of NVQ, from entry-level to higher-level qualifications. You can find NVQ courses at colleges and training providers across the UK.
- CSCS: CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme, and it’s a requirement for anyone who wants to work on a construction site in the UK. To get a CSCS card, you will need to pass a test covering health and safety in construction. You can find construction study materials and practice tests for the CSCS test on the CITB website.
These are just some of the qualifications you will need to work in construction in the UK. By getting these qualifications, you will be well on your way to a successful career in the industry.
Starting a construction career in the UK can be challenging without prior knowledge. But with these four steps, you’ll have everything you need to get started! From there, you can improve your skills enough even to lead a construction firm yourself. However, it is essential to get your construction journey in the UK off to a good start.
