skilled trades 
The construction industry accounts for approximately 10% of economic activity nationally and employs one in every 14 people. An industry this size offers a vast range of employment opportunities including:
skilled trades A key feature of construction in the UK is how easy it is for people to succeed within the industry. Wage levels are also growing faster than most other sectors of the economy, which is encouraged by the rising demand for skilled construction workers.
There has never been a better time to start a career in the construction industry here in Kent!
The industry relies on skilled people, so the starting point for any career is training. The three routes are:
Craft training – you will need GCSEs and a good grounding in maths and English. There are full-time college courses available in a range of construction trades. A good starting point is to contact your local further education college.
There are also apprenticeships with employers involving day release to attend college. These apprenticeships are open to people between the ages of 16 and 24. CITB SectorSkills offer advice through their bconstructive website (this link will open in a new window) or you can call the Construction Apprenticeship Scheme helpline on 01485 577877.
Technical training – this is the first step on the ladder to go into surveying, estimating, design or site supervision. You will need GCSEs and A levels. You can train on a full-time or part-time basis.
Graduate training – this covers:
Qualifications can lead to chartered status with a number of professional bodies.
Finding a job There are a number of ways to find a job in construction and we want to help you find the best way for you.
The links below will open in a new window.
If you are a young person thinking about a career in construction, you should consider the E2E scheme. The Entry to Employment (E2E) programme is a work-based learning scheme for young people between the ages of 16 and 18. The Government’s New Deal scheme offers 'taster' courses for those aged between 16 and 24 who have been unemployed for more than six months, or for people aged 25 and over who have been unemployed for two years or more.
If you are considering a change of career, the construction industry offers many opportunities for a varied and interesting new career. For more information, visit learndirect or Jobcentre Plus websites.
