How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- building studies
- construction management
- surveying
- civil engineering
- construction engineering
Courses that offer the chance to gain work experience through a year in industry placement or paid internship may give you an advantage when looking for work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course, which may help you to find a trainee position, a place on an apprenticeship or entry onto a higher education course. Subjects include:
- construction and the built environment
- civil engineering
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a construction firm, such as:
- Construction Site Supervisor Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Civil Engineering Senior Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Construction Site Management Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
These take around 3 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as a site tradesperson, building technician or surveying assistant and become a site inspector through on-the-job training, like that offered by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Direct Application
You could apply directly to work as a construction site supervisor. To do this, you'll need several years' experience and qualifications in construction. Awards in building health and safety would also be useful.
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Registration
- you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate for professional development, industry news and useful resources.
Further information
You'll find more details about training and working in construction from Go Construct and House Building Careers.