Changes to educational policy in the UK have seen an increased focus on vocational education. This includes the introduction of the Traineeship Skills Development Programme and T Level qualifications. These new pathways into construction involve a mixture of classroom learning and extensive on-the-job experience.
To support learners transitioning from the classroom into the workplace, the construction industry is introducing the Industry Placement Card.
The card displaying the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) logo will be available from September and is for learners aged sixteen (or above). Applicants must be registered onto recognised qualification or training programmes requiring a minimum of 30 days work placement which is intended to ultimately lead to a job in construction and the built environment.
Alan O’Neile, Head of Communications at CSCS, said: “CSCS welcomes the introduction of the Industry Placement card. Extended periods of work placement provide critical on-site experience for the learner whilst simultaneously providing employers with access to the latest talent entering the industry. The card enables the learner to access site and start developing the practical and technical skills required by the future workforce.”
Initially four card schemes, Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS), Engineering Services SKILLcard and JIB Plumbing Mechanical Engineering Services (JIB PMES) will make the card available from September with potentially more schemes to follow.
The card schemes are keen to highlight that it is important to apply to the card scheme relevant to the construction pathway undertaken by the learner. For example, a learner undertaking a T Level in Building Services Engineering with a specialist pathway in Protection Systems Engineering should apply to the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme.
Andy Reakes, Head of Growth at ECS said: “Identifying the correct card scheme ensures the learner starts off on the right pathway and enjoys smooth progression through the industry.”
For further information on the CSCS logoed card schemes and the occupations they cover visit: www.cscs.uk.com/partner.
Andy Reakes continued: “Like all cards displaying the CSCS logo, the card should be checked thoroughly before allowing a learner on site. A thorough check is the most effective way for employers to be sure learners are working towards the appropriate qualifications for the job they do on site.”
The introduction of the Industry Placement card follows extensive engagement with the industry including engagement with the Construction Leadership Council and the Department for Education, and taking onboard the feedback from an industry wide consultation carried out in early 2021.
For further information, including the full requirements for the Industry Placement card visit: www.cscs.uk.com/placement.