Groundworkers are the first trade onto a construction and civil engineering site and work closely with supervisors and engineers in interpreting design specifications to prepare the site ready for structural building works. They continue their work throughout the construction phase, working with on-site construction trades, such as bricklayers and plant operatives, up to and including the final completion activities of the project. Their work includes setting out and preparing the sub-surfaces ready for the structural work to begin, installing drainage systems, concreting, constructing roads and pathways and carrying out the finished hard landscaping. Groundworkers are able to transfer between heavy construction and civil engineering sites as well as house building, commercial building and general building sites. They work for all types of construction companies from small subcontractors to large main contractors.
Apprentices are supported by a tutor whilst at college, with assessment in the workplace and regular reviews between the employer, tutor, and apprentice to discuss progress and achievements.
When the apprenticeship standard, off the job learning hours, functional skills and the record of evidence has been completed apprentices move to Gateway. This is where the employer confirms competency and is ready to take the end point assessment.
The end point assessment consists of a knowledge test which is graded as fail, pass or distinction. The practical test will be assessed whilst carrying out the following activities: Laying paving using slabs, construct a concrete path and Lay domestic drainage. Following the practical task, the apprentice will be asked questions to assess knowledge, skills and behaviours not demonstrated through the practical task.
Nearly all apprentices gain a permanent job upon achievement and great longer-term career prospects within the company.
The Standard contains the 5 elements of every other standard being delivered within the department Knowledge, Skills, Behaviour, End Point Assessment and the crucial
devlopment of Functional Skills in mathematics and English.
• A minimum of GCSEs at grades 3 – 9 (GCSE D or above) English and Maths. Functional Skills Level 1.
• Apprentices without Level 1 in English and maths will need to achieve this level.
• Be able to work more than 30 hours per week.
• Be able to provide a record of evidence
The training is based on block release with the apprentice attending for one week every month. The training schedule comprises of three six-month terms. The first term is college based, the second term is company based and the final term college based.
During the company-based training the apprentice must complete a record of evidence. This record of evidence must be completed and forwarded to the EPAO prior to the EPA being undertaken.
Telford College works with the employer to create a specific development plan to meet the apprenticeship standards which the apprentice is expected to work towards. Whilst working to the plan in the workplace the apprentice will track the journey mapping to the required standards showing valuable knowledge, skills and practical experience gained. Alongside an off the job record highlighting all the learning that has taken place (a min of 20% of the duration of the apprenticeship).
