How they work
An apprenticeship framework is based around an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) or SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification). These qualifications are developed and approved by people who work in the industry, and are designed to measure workers’ practical skills and job knowledge by assessing their work on-site.
All apprentices must also:
- pass the ConstructionSkills Health and Safety Test
- achieve the relevant technical certificate
- achieve the appropriate level of key skills assessment
- undergo an Employers Rights and Responsibilities briefing
All of which help contribute to their effectiveness at work and help them qualify for an appropriate card scheme.
Apprenticeship schemes
All ConstructionSkills apprentices in England and Wales are registered with the Construction Apprenticeships Scheme (CAS) and in Scotland with the Scottish Building Apprenticeship Training Council scheme (SBATC).
Essentially, these act as an agreement setting out the responsibilities between you (the employer), the apprentice and ConstructionSkills as the apprenticeship provider. They cover the conditions, wages, recruitment and training of apprentices.
Your key responsibilities as an employer are to:
- Allow time for learning so the apprentice can attend off the job training
- Provide opportunities for craft-related work experience to develop their skills
- Meet minimum recommended pay rates for all apprentices