Discover your path into the Industry
You’re probably wondering ‘Where do I start?’. That’s why we’re here to help. Depending on where you currently are, there are a few options available to you.
Learn more below
Before we show you the routes, we believe it’s important for you to understand the different Qualification levels:
Intermediate Level 2 - equivalent to GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C). To apply for this level you'll just need to be over 16 years old and no longer in full-time education.
Advanced Level 3 - equivalent to A Levels grades, Level 3 Diploma or International Baccalaureate. To apply for this level you'll likely be asked for at least three GCSE grades (9-4) or an intermediate apprenticeship qualification.
Higher Level 4 & 5 - equivalent to a university Foundation degree, HNC or first year of bachelor's degree. To apply you’ll need at least five GCSE grades (9-4) and some Level 3 qualifications such as AS-levels, a BTEC National or a Level 3 NVQ. Your Level 3 subjects should be relevant!
Degree Level 6 & 7 - equivalent to a university Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. To apply you’ll need at least five GCSE grades (9-4) and three A-levels in a specified grade range or a higher apprenticeship qualification. It's also likely you'll be required to have prior work experience.
If you don’t live in England, check out apprenticeship options in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
To help you decide what’s best for you, we’ve detailed below some of the main routes into the industry:
T Levels
For 16-19 year olds
An alternative route to A-Levels for you to start your career in the Industry. You get the opportunity to continue studying with the benefit of a guaranteed work placement. T Levels have been designed to provide you with specific skills and industry experience, this all equips you to be a suitable candidate as you enter the world of work!
Traineeships
For 16 - 24 (or 16 - 18 in Wales)
A skills development programme that includes a work placement. They’re a great way to get your career in Construction off the ground by preparing you for the world of work. They offer you a chance to demonstrate your capabilities whilst building the skills you need for an apprenticeship or job!
College (Further Education)
For 16 - 19 year olds
Further Education usually means courses taken at a college. Colleges offer a whole range of different courses and study programmes from those that do not need any specific GCSE grades such as Entry Level courses through to apprenticeships, A Levels, Higher Education degrees, and professional or technical qualifications.
University (Higher Education)
For aged 18 and older
Foundation courses and degrees can also help you move up the career ladder. It’s not compulsory to go to university to get a job in construction, however some construction career roles require that you do and some employers will expect higher qualifications, such as Higher National Certificates (HNC’s) or a degree. Having a relevant Higher Education qualification
means that you can go into a construction job that you could not access through other routes!
Work Experience
For anyone
Work experience is a way to discover what different jobs in the construction and built environment sector are like. Depending on your interests, work experience can help you get a feel for a job you’re interested in and will improve your CV, making you more employable! It also allows you to network and start making professional contacts within the field of work you’re interested in, which could be useful for the future.
Questions to ask yourself:
What do you like about Construction? Is it the design of projects, the planning behind a project or an element of the build process etc.?
What career roles are available in that area and which ones appeal to you?
What route do you need to take to become that role and what Qualifications do you need?
Be Inspired
Read the stories of Young Women working within Construction and the routes they took there.