Design, Construction and Management Higher Apprenticeship

From the moment you join this programme, you'll be a valuable member of the team and we'll make sure your work is well rewarded. So we won’t just train you for a well-paid career; we’ll pay you a competitive salary of circa £20,048 from day one. You’ll also benefit from a pension plan and a generous holiday entitlement, every year. 

As part of your programme you will be placed with a range of employers who have excellent reputations in the sector and whose projects and commissions take them across the UK and the world giving you experience of different disciplines of architecture, building engineering (structural and M&E) and construction/site management. 

What will I study? 

You will complete a Higher Apprenticeship programme in Design, Construction and Management, underpinned by HNC/D, providing a pathway to progression at a wide range of universities. 

The programme is supported by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

You'lll study one day a week at Gateshead College’s Skills Academy for Construction, developing your knowledge in building design and performance through a combination of lectures, tutorials, field work and site visits. The five areas of study are: 

• Leadership 

• Economics 

• Design 

• Technology 

• Production 

Throughout your apprenticeship you will be developing a range of skills and behaviours which are key to the various roles in the construction sector. You’ll gain knowledge in building design, design process, construction technology, digital skills,health and safety and building performance alongside transferable skills like team working, leadership, innovation and communication.

The programme lasts 2 years and offers a real alternative to full-time university. It will help you forge careers in a variety of roles which will change and evolve as your career progresses

Entry Requirements 

This programme is not for the faint hearted.  The pace will be fast and you will be expected to excel in your development so you can progress to the next stage.  You should have already completed GCSE (Level 2) and A Level (or equivalent Level 3) study and eligible to apply for university level study in the UK.   

You need 3 A Levels at grade C and above or a BTEC Extended Diploma (averaging merits / distinctions), or the equivalent of 96 UCAS points plus GCSE Maths, Science and English at grade 4 (C) or above. 

Beyond your academic qualifications, we'll be looking for evidence that you're genuinely enthusiastic about developing a career in construction - what are your favourite buildings or structure, and why? 

You'll be analytical, methodical and good at solving problems, as well as articulate, driven and a fast learner. 

How do I apply? 

Applications for September 2023 are now closed.

If you are interested in applying for our PlanBEE programme starting in September, click here to give us your details and we'll be in touch when applications re-open.