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Apprenticeships in Scaffolding: Building the Next Generation of Scaffolders

October 7, 2024

Apprenticeships have long been a cornerstone of the construction industry in the UK, and the scaffolding sector is no different. For young people and those looking for a career change, scaffolding apprenticeships offer a clear path to a rewarding and challenging profession. But what makes scaffolding apprenticeships so valuable, and how do they contribute to closing the skills gap in the construction industry?


The Importance of Apprenticeships in the Scaffolding Sector

The UK construction industry is facing a skills shortage, and scaffolding is no exception. With over 34,000 scaffolding operatives working across the UK, there is a need for new entrants to meet the demand and replace an ageing workforce.

One of the key ways the industry is tackling this shortage is through apprenticeships. Apprenticeships offer a structured training programme that combines on-the-job learning with classroom-based education. In scaffolding, apprenticeships not only provide the technical skills required to excel in the trade but also help workers gain nationally recognised qualifications.


Why Apprenticeships Are the Best Path to a Career in Scaffolding


Earn While You Learn

One of the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship is that it allows you to earn a wage while gaining practical experience. This means you don’t have to worry about student debt or taking out loans, as many apprenticeships in scaffolding are fully funded by the employer or training provider.

Real-World Experience

As an apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience working on real construction sites under the supervision of skilled professionals. This real-world training gives you a competitive edge when you enter the job market as a qualified scaffolder.

Nationally Recognised Qualifications

Through an apprenticeship, you’ll work towards the scaffolding qualifications that are required to work on most construction sites in the UK . With this qualification, you can progress in your career, eventually becoming a supervisor or even setting up your own scaffolding business.

Success Stories: Apprenticeship to Leadership

Many of today’s scaffolding leaders started their careers as apprentices. For instance, industry veterans often speak of how their time as an apprentice laid the foundation for their success, giving them both the technical know-how and the soft skills to lead teams on major projects.


The Benefits of Apprenticeships for Employers

It’s not just apprentices who benefit from these schemes—employers gain a lot as well. By hiring apprentices, employers can ensure their workforce is trained to the highest standards and is familiar with the latest safety regulations and technologies. Additionally, government funding often helps to offset the cost of training, making it a cost-effective way to build a skilled workforce.


How to Get Started

If you’re interested in pursuing an apprenticeship in scaffolding, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. The CITB is a great place to start, as they offer scaffolding apprenticeships across the UK . Additionally, many scaffolding companies offer in-house training programmes, so it’s worth reaching out to local scaffolding firms to see what opportunities are available.


Apprenticeships are an excellent way to enter the scaffolding industry and build a successful, long-term career. For both individuals and businesses, they provide a clear path to developing the skills, knowledge, and qualifications necessary to thrive in the construction industry.

With the demand for scaffolders growing, now is the perfect time to consider an apprenticeship and join an industry that’s critical to the UK’s construction future.


Remember to check the NSW website for updates on available scaffolding apprenticeships!

Beat My Scaffold 2025 Winners Announced

March 25, 2025
The #BeatMyScaffold2025 competition has officially concluded, celebrating some of the most innovative and well-executed scaffold designs from around the world. The contest, which showcased the skills and creativity of industry professionals, saw strong participation from scaffolding experts, judges, and voters alike.
Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders –

Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders – Essential Driver CPC Module Launched by Scaffolding Association and RHA

February 13, 2025
Scaffolding transport comes with serious risks and getting it wrong can result in fines, vehicle prohibitions, loss of an operator’s license, and, more tragically, serious injuries or even fatalities. For this reason, the Scaffolding Association and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have this week launched a brand-new Driver CPC training module, 'Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders.' This course contributes to the required thirty-five hours of periodic Driver CPC training, mandatory for all professional HGV drivers. Failing to complete this training can result in being unable to legally drive. Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said: "Scaffolding transport is both high-risk and heavily regulated and getting it wrong can have devastating consequences. Poorly secured scaffolding loads can cause serious injuries, collisions and even fatalities. This new course equips drivers with the knowledge to prevent such incidents, protecting lives and protecting businesses from enforcement action and legal consequences.” Richard Smith, Managing Director of the RHA, said: "Load security is a priority for police and enforcement agencies who actively target non-compliant vehicles. There’s a moral obligation too as unsecured scaffolding and unsafe loads not only lead to penalties, but they also put lives at risk. This DVSA-approved course is designed specifically for scaffolding-related transport and equips drivers and businesses with the essential skills to stay compliant and safe. It arms drivers and businesses with the knowledge they need to prevent accidents, avoid fines, and protect the public." This Course Will Ensure: ● Drivers and operators fully understand the latest legislation ● Scaffolding materials are transported safely, securely, and legally ● Vehicles remain roadworthy and compliant with operator license requirements ● Businesses avoid costly enforcement action, fines, and prohibitions What Delegates Will Learn: ● Load Security – Key updates and who is responsible ● Staying Safe & Compliant – The right way to load scaffolding vehicles ● The Consequences of Getting It Wrong – Prohibitions, fines, and legal action ● Daily Vehicle Checks – What must be checked and how to record defects ● Defect & NIL Defect Reporting – Keeping vehicles roadworthy ● Enforcement Agencies – Their powers, documentation, and what to expect Who Needs to Book This Course? ● All professional HGV drivers transporting scaffolding ● Operators and supervisors responsible for loading & securing scaffolding materials ● Businesses that want to avoid enforcement action and protect their operator’s license For full course details including dates and locations, please visit: https://www.rha.uk.net/Training/England-Wales/Driver-CPC-Courses/-Safe-Loading-and-vehicle-checks-for-Scaffolders

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Shaping the Future of Scaffolding

February 10, 2025
As National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) kicks off, we at National Scaffolding Week are excited to celebrate the hardworking apprentices who are building the future of our industry. Apprenticeships are the backbone of the scaffolding trade, providing the vital skills and experience needed to ensure safety, innovation, and high standards across the sector. This week, we’re taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent within our field and the opportunities available for those looking to start their careers in scaffolding. Apprenticeships offer a fantastic pathway for young people and career changers alike, allowing them to earn while they learn, gain practical experience, and ultimately become key players in the scaffolding workforce. Why Apprenticeships Matter in Scaffolding The scaffolding industry is essential to construction, providing the structural framework needed for everything from high-rise buildings to complex industrial projects. For apprentices in the scaffolding trade, the combination of hands-on learning and technical training sets them up for long-term success. Through an apprenticeship, individuals don’t just acquire the practical skills of scaffolding; they also learn about the importance of safety standards, teamwork, and project management. These skills are essential in today’s fast-paced and evolving construction world. Moreover, apprenticeships provide access to highly sought-after qualifications and certifications, making them invaluable assets to any scaffolding business. Apprenticeship Opportunities at National Scaffolding Week At National Scaffolding Week , we’re not only celebrating apprentices but also committed to supporting the next generation of scaffolding talent. Our website is a hub for sharing valuable apprenticeship opportunities with aspiring scaffolding professionals. Whether you're a school leaver or someone looking for a career change, there are numerous pathways into the scaffolding industry, and we’re here to help you find them. By visiting our Apprenticeship Page , you can explore a variety of roles that are currently available within the scaffolding industry. These opportunities allow you to gain on-the-job training, mentorship, and industry-recognised qualifications—all while earning a competitive wage. We encourage all employers within the scaffolding community to post their apprenticeship opportunities on the gov.uk page so that the next generation of scaffolding professionals can easily find and apply for these valuable positions. Together, we can ensure a steady stream of highly skilled individuals entering our industry and contributing to its continued success. Shaping the Future Together Apprenticeships are about more than just learning a trade; they’re about building a career that can last a lifetime. We are incredibly proud of the apprentices who are dedicating themselves to mastering the scaffolding trade. Each one of them is a vital part of the future of our industry, and we’re excited to see the impact they’ll make. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025 , let’s reflect on the importance of apprenticeships in scaffolding and construction as a whole. By supporting these programs and helping to nurture new talent, we’re not only investing in the future of scaffolding but also in safer, more efficient, and innovative construction practices. To explore apprenticeship opportunities and learn more about the various pathways into scaffolding, head over to our Apprenticeship Page today. Join Us in Celebrating Apprenticeships We invite everyone—apprentices, employers, and industry leaders—to join us in celebrating the achievements of apprentices throughout National Apprenticeship Week. Let’s share stories of success, offer encouragement, and inspire others to take that important first step toward a rewarding career in scaffolding. Together, we’re building the future, one apprentice at a time.
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