Highways maintenance skilled operatives work for a variety of companies within the private sector such as utilities firms, or public sector employers including local authorities and Highways England. Your primary role will be maintaining the highway infrastructure providing vital maintenance and safety services that benefit local communities; such as pothole repairs. If you enjoy working outdoors, being part of a hard-working team and would like a meaningful job where your contribution adds value to people’s surroundings, an apprenticeship is an excellent way to embark on this exciting career path.
Apprentices are supported by a tutor whilst at college, assessment in the workplace and with 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 required off the job, 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 fail, pass or distinction. The practical test will be assessed whilst carrying out one of the following 3 activities: laying bitumen, laying kerbs, concrete or modular paving. Following the practical task, the apprentice will be asked questions to assess knowledge, skills and behaviours not demonstrated through the practical task.
On completion of the Standard the Apprentice will be awarded a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Highway Maintenance General Operative enabling a Skilled Operative CSCS Card to be obtained
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 by Telford College within the department Knowledge, Skills, Behaviour, End Point Assessment and the crucial development of English and Mathematics Functional Skills.
• A minimum of GCSEs at grades 3 – 9 (GCSE D or above), Functional Skills level 1 in English and Maths
• Apprentices without Level 1 in English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and maths prior to taking the end-point assessment
• 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 require
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).
