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What qualifications do you need to be a tradesman?

employment, Construction

 

Specialising in a particular trade, tradespeople are typically skilled workers who've worked their way up through 'on-the-job training' schemes such as apprenticeships, as well as specific vocational college courses.

Some trades don't have any formal entry requirements, whereas others offer a clear route to becoming a qualified tradesperson. Become a qualified tradesperson takes time and there are no shortcuts, so it's also important to be wary of any 'fast track' or 'independent course providers' - if it seems too good to be true it generally is!

How do I become a tradesman?

In the UK, to get intermediate or advanced qualifications in a specific trade, you will need at least 5 GCSE's ranging from A* to D. So, if want to get into a particular trade, we’ve looked at some of the most popular ones and the qualifications needed to get into that specific line of work.

What qualifications do I need to become a builder?

Builders often begin their careers in entry-level roles or as an apprentice, where no qualifications are needed. That said, employers will look for a good general standard of education, e.g. GCSEs (A-C) in maths and English, as well as any previous experience in the construction industry. Almost every building site requires CSCS Card Certification (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme), to ensure high standards of safety and compliance on-site at all times.

Other common qualifications and certificates in the construction industry include:

What qualifications do I need to become a plumber?

Plumbing apprenticeships take up to 4 years to complete. Those that don't have enough work experience for an apprenticeship often take the traineeship route (work placement) to develop the relevant skills required. The minimum qualification to become a plumber is the City & Guilds 6035 Level 2 Diploma in Domestic Plumbing. Other qualifications include:

  • Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating
  • T level for Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technicians
  • Gas Safe registration
  • Asbestos Awareness

What qualifications do I need to become an electrician?

Most electricians get into this career through an apprenticeship scheme, usually taking 2 to 4 years to become fully qualified. You will need:

  • Industry recognised level 3 qualification e.g Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical Services
  • Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations if part of an apprenticeship
  • Asbestos Awareness

What qualifications do I need to become a roofer?

Often considered one of the most physically demanding trades, roofer apprenticeships can take up to 2 years to complete. To become a roofer, you’ll need:

  • Level 2 Diploma in Roofing Occupations
  • Level 2 Diploma in Roof Slating and Tiling
  • T level for Roofers
  • Asbestos Awareness

What qualifications do I need to become a plasterer?

Another trade that's often accessed through apprenticeships or college courses, you can also get into plastering through onsite experience as an assistant plasterer. Advanced apprenticeships in plastering can take up to 3 years to complete, involving a mixture of onsite training and classroom-based learning. Other qualifications to consider include:

  • Level 1 Award in Construction Skills – Plastering
  • Level 2 Diploma in Plastering
  • Asbestos Awareness

What qualifications do I need to become a carpenter?

One of the oldest trades around, carpentry apprenticeships can take up to 3 years to complete. To become a carpenter, you’ll need:

  • Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery
  • Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery
  • T level for Carpentry and Joinery

What qualifications do I need to become a painter and decorator?

Painter and decorators don't need to be qualified but making a living with no experience will be difficult. Initial work experience can be gained as a painter and decorator's labourer. As well as apprenticeships, painting and decorating qualifications to look out for include:

  • Level 1 Award/Certificate in Basic Construction Skills (Painting and Decorating)
  • Level 1 Certificate in Construction Crafts - Painting and Decorating
  • Level 1/2/3 Diploma in Painting and Decorating
  • Asbestos Awareness

What qualifications do I need to become a landscape gardener?

There are no formal requirements to become a landscaper, but most employers will expect a decent level of horticulture knowledge and experience. The following qualifications will provide you with the relevant skills needed to become a successful landscape gardener:

  • Level 1 Diploma in Skills for Working in Horticulture Industries
  • Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture
  • Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture

What qualifications do I need to become a double glazing installer?

Those that have GCSEs in maths and English and/or previous experience of carpentry and joinery can often apply directly, starting as a fitter's 'mate' (assistant) and working their way up. Helpful qualifications to have include:

  • Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills
  • Level 1 Award in Carpentry and Joinery
  • T level for Fenestration Installers
  • Asbestos Awareness

Tradespeople wanted - find more work with PPR Recruitment

The construction division of PPR provides an extensive range of industry professionals for a variety of projects.  We source and place qualified tradespeople, skilled operatives, and more general workers to various UK construction projects.

If you're looking for tradesman vacancies, contact PPR today to find out more about our current career opportunities. Call 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online for more information or specialist advice and support.

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