Getting up to NVQ level 3 is a must if you wish to become fully and professionally qualified, but a determined service leaver can achieve an NVQ level 2 within a relatively condensed period. The NVQ can only be achieved when in employment, so the first step for the unskilled would be to undertake relevant training prior to entering the industry which covers the theory elements of the NVQ.
An essential part of your training should be in building a portfolio of evidence, which will be a document to which you will add to through your career and act as one of your best marketing tools to show off your capabilities. A company specializing in the adult re-training market for the construction trades, such as Step to Training, will offer a six week course covering the key competencies for the NVQ level 2. Alternatively, you could do a taster course to see if it is a skill for you. However, you need to be aware that to get on-site a CSCS card will be essential and this can be obtained by enrolling on an NVQ program, usually with your local college.
A typical NVQ level 1 trainee in roofing or bricklaying would earn £14,500 while fully qualified professionals earn in the region of £21,000 upwards. However, some employers pay much more and there may also be bonuses and overtime pay. There are national rates for traveling time, travel expenses and the cost of accommodation, but these can also vary.
Both roofers and bricklayers travel from site to site, working on a project and then moving on to the next one.
They may also have to work away from home for short or long periods. The skills they both require are:
· practical ability
· good fitness
· to be agile and active
· the ability to plan jobs in advance and carry out tasks in the right order
· to understand drawings and plans
· to follow written or spoken instructions
· a head for heights
· team-working skills
