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Category: Construction news

Posted on by r.donnelly

Lisburn Electrical student scores 100%

Congratulations to Andrew, a remarkable 19-year-old student electrician from Lisburn, on his fantastic achievements in the electrical trade! A former student of Fort Hill Integrated College and a dedicated participant in the Skills for Life and Work programme with People 1st, Andrew has been making incredible strides in his budding career.

Over the summer, he completed his City & Guilds Level 1 Electrotechnical qualification and excelled further by achieving his Level 3 City & Guilds Environmental Technology Systems qualification with a perfect 100% score—an exceptional accomplishment, as very few students achieve this distinction!

Now employed full-time with Fox Electrical, Andrew is ready to take his skills to the next level by pursuing his Level 3 NVQ Electrotechnical qualification with People 1st and our strategic training partner Building Services Academy in Dunmurry. His role focuses on commercial electrical projects, where he gains valuable hands-on experience working with Fox’s installation and maintenance team. His journey highlights the power of the fully funded All Age Apprenticeships programme, which allows dedicated learners like Andrew to advance without financial barriers. More info here 👉🏼 https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/apprenticeships-ni/

Supportive Tutors and a Dedicated Team

Andrew’s progress is a testament to the support and expertise of our highly skilled tutors. The collaboration between People 1st and Building Services Academy, where Andrew has received expert training from tutors Paddy McShane and Connla Morris, has been essential to Andrew’s success so far, and both teams will continue to support him as he works towards completing his Level 3 NVQ Electrical qualification. The hands-on, real-world training provided at the Electrical and Plumbing Training Academy in Dunmurry ensures our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the electrical trade.

A Network of Support: Thank You to Our Team in Lisburn

Andrew was recently awarded his certificates by his Lisburn Student Support Officer, Tomás, pictured with Andrew above, who has been a strong source of encouragement throughout Andrew’s journey. Tomás, along with Maura and the entire Lisburn support team, is thrilled to see Andrew reach these impressive milestones, which mark his path to a successful career in the electrical field.

People 1st and Building Services Academy: Preparing Future Electricians Across Northern Ireland

Andrew’s success underscores the unique opportunities People 1st offers aspiring electricians throughout Northern Ireland. In partnership with Building Services Academy, our programs provide a balanced blend of classroom learning and practical experience, working closely with local businesses to prepare students for the specific demands of the trade. Our Electrical and Plumbing Training Academy in Dunmurry is fully equipped to offer state-of-the-art training, ensuring students like Andrew are career-ready upon completion.

Why Choose People 1st for Your Electrical Training?

Our City & Guilds-accredited Level 1 and Level 3 Electrical qualifications are recognised throughout the industry, offering a clear path from foundational skills to advanced technical knowledge. As an aspiring electrician, you’ll gain hands-on experience with commercial and residential projects, supported by experienced tutors and a dedicated network. Plus, with the All Age Apprenticeships programme, these opportunities are fully funded, providing a cost-effective way to up-skill and advance in a highly sought-after field.

If you’re inspired by Andrew’s journey and ready to start your own career in electrical work, contact People 1st today to learn about our fully funded apprenticeship opportunities in Lisburn, Dunmurry, and throughout Northern Ireland. You can also find some great information on the City&Guilds website: https://www.cityandguilds.com/qualifications-and-apprenticeships/building-services-industry/electrical-installation/5357-electrotech-apprenticeship-qualification#tab=information

Interested? Get in Touch Today!

Our team is ready to support your goals in electrical studies. If you are working already in the field and would like to gain your Level 3 qualification, then please reach out to our Electrical and Plumbing specialist Rosemary Hart at [email protected]. We also open our courses up for those leaving school at 16/17 to start a Level 1 qualification with ourselves so if you or your child is nearing school leaving age then please contact your local office here: https://people-1st.co.uk/locations/

Begin your journey to success with People 1st and Building Services Academy today!

Posted on by r.donnelly

What You Need to Know and How People 1st Can Help!

If you’re a supervisor, team leader, or subcontractor on construction sites in Northern Ireland, significant changes are on the horizon. Starting December 31, 2024, the Construction Skills Register (CSR) will require all site supervisors to hold an NVQ Level 3 or 4 in Construction Site Supervision to renew or obtain the CSR Gold Site Supervisor card. This change marks a new era of qualification standards, designed to ensure higher competency and safety in construction site management and to bring NI legislation in line with GB legislation.

To support those in the industry, People 1st is pleased to offer the final course before this legislation takes effect, happening on Wednesday, December 11. Led by our head tutor in Site Supervision, Peter Daly, this training will provide one-on-one support to guide participants through the certification process. Peter Daly brings extensive experience to the role, making him an exceptional leader for this vital course.

What This Change Means for You

The introduction of this mandatory qualification is part of an industry-wide effort to ensure that site supervisors have the advanced skills needed for safe and effective site management. Previously, supervisors could renew their cards through alternative routes, such as industry accreditation. However, this pathway will be discontinued by the end of 2024. Supervisors without an NVQ Level 4 will no longer qualify for the Gold Site Supervisor card, which could have significant financial implications as they may only be eligible for lower-tier positions.

Common Questions About the New CSR Site Supervisor Requirements

As we approach the deadline, here are some key questions supervisors may have about these changes:

  1. What specific qualification is now required to renew my CSR Gold Site Supervisor card after December 31, 2024?
    From December 31, 2024, supervisors must hold an NVQ Level 4 in Construction Site Supervision. This will replace the industry accreditation route, which allowed supervisors to obtain the card based on work experience alone.
  2. Can I renew my current CSR Gold Site Supervisor card without an NVQ?
    Yes, supervisors can renew their card without an NVQ by completing a CSR Site Supervisor Refresher course, but this renewal will only be valid until December 31, 2024. After this date, the NVQ Level 4 will be mandatory.
  3. What are my options if I currently hold a CSR Site Supervisor card but do not have an NVQ qualification?
    You have three options: (1) renew with a shorter validity by taking the Refresher course, (2) downgrade to a Green Labourer’s or White Health & Safety card, or (3) begin working toward the NVQ Level 4 to ensure eligibility for the Gold Site Supervisor card after the cutoff.
  4. How long does it take to complete the NVQ Level 4 in Construction Site Supervision?
    The duration varies depending on individual progress and course structure, but People 1st offers flexible options to help participants complete the qualification while continuing to work.
  5. Will there be additional testing requirements to obtain or renew my CSR Site Supervisor card?
    Yes, alongside the NVQ Level 4, supervisors will need to complete the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test, which is also known as the touchscreen test.
  6. What are the benefits of upgrading to an NVQ Level 4 for my career as a site supervisor?
    Obtaining the NVQ Level 4 not only meets the new CSR requirements but also enhances your career prospects, validating your skills and knowledge in construction supervision. It can open doors to higher responsibility roles and improve earning potential.
  7. What financial impact could I face if I don’t obtain the NVQ Level 4 for my CSR Site Supervisor card?
    Without the NVQ Level 4, you won’t qualify for the CSR Gold Site Supervisor card renewal after December 31, 2024. This could result in a pay reduction, as you may only qualify for lower-tier roles that do not receive supervisor-level pay. Investing in the NVQ Level 4 can help maintain your position and income.

People 1st: Your Partner in Site Supervision Training

People 1st has a proven track record of excellence in construction training. Our programs are tailored to provide practical, real-world knowledge, allowing participants to master industry standards in site supervision. With our award-winning training team, we pride ourselves on our ability to guide supervisors through this transition smoothly and effectively. You can find full qualification information here: https://people-1st.co.uk/qualifications/nocn-cskills-award-nvq-level-3-diploma-in-construction-occupational-work-supervision/

Our training model combines one-to-one support, in-person sessions, and online modules, ensuring a flexible and accessible approach to learning. People 1st is recognized for offering some of the most comprehensive courses in Northern Ireland, supported by experienced tutors like Peter Daly, who is well-versed in the nuances of construction site supervision.

For added support, we offer payment plans to help participants spread the cost of the training, and companies registered with CITB NI may qualify for grants to subsidise their employees’ training. This means companies can invest in their teams’ professional growth without significant financial strain.

Important Links for Further Information

For those seeking more information about the new qualification requirements and industry standards, here are some useful links:

Don’t Miss Our Final Course Before the Change

Our last course before the December 31 deadline will be held on Wednesday, December 11. This is an invaluable opportunity to secure your place in the construction industry with the new qualification requirements. Led by Peter Daly, this course offers everything supervisors need to ensure a smooth transition into compliance with the upcoming legislation.

To reserve your spot, contact our in-house specialist Nadine Elliott at 07710711958 or email [email protected]. Nadine is available to answer any questions about the course, qualification requirements, and funding options.

People 1st is committed to helping construction professionals navigate these legislative changes with ease and confidence. Join us to secure your CSR Site Supervisor card renewal and continue advancing your career with the support of our dedicated, award-winning team. Don’t wait—enroll today and make sure you’re ready for 2024!

Posted on by r.donnelly
Don Burns, People 1st Construction Centre Manager ( second from left) with Industry leaders across Northern Ireland

The construction industry in the United Kingdom and Ireland has always been a powerhouse of economic growth and development. However, in recent years, it has faced a unique set of challenges when it comes to attracting and retaining young, fresh talent. With an ageing workforce and a growing demand for skilled professionals, the construction sector must adapt to ensure a sustainable and vibrant future.

How prepared is Northern Ireland’s construction industry to meet the ambitions of 2050 and beyond?

That was one of the main questions posed at a recent roundtable discussion at the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITBNI) and one that our Centre Manager for Construction Don Burns, was on hand to answer, exploring the challenges faced by the industry in getting young talent through the door and, more importantly, keeping them engaged and motivated to stay.

“In my experience, the challenge is more nuanced and centres more on retaining young people in the industry rather than that initial attraction. The attraction exists. A major government arm’s length body recently had over 480 applications to a call for six electrician apprenticeships. However, when we get young people into the industry, it can take between three to five years for them to qualify and earn an attractive wage. The reality is that in that timeframe, other industries and sectors can appear more appealing. If we want to have an industry that can deliver on future challenges, we need to improve the attractiveness of not only entering the industry, but the long-term benefits of staying there. ” Don Burns Centre Manager, People 1st Construction Training Academy
A heating engineer installing underfloor heating system
A heating engineer installing underfloor heating system

What other challenges do we face when trying to attract fresh talent to the Construction industry across Northern Ireland?

  • Perceptions and Stereotypes:
  • One of the primary challenges in attracting young talent to the construction industry is the negative perception that often surrounds it. Many young people still hold outdated stereotypes of construction work as physically demanding, low-paying, and lacking in opportunities for career growth. Changing these perceptions is crucial to drawing in fresh faces.
  • Lack of Awareness:
  • Many young individuals may not even consider construction as a viable career option due to a lack of awareness about the diverse and rewarding roles within the industry. Promoting construction careers through educational institutions and outreach programs is essential.
  • Skills Gap:
  • While the industry is keen to embrace new talent, there is often a disconnect between the skills required and those possessed by young job seekers. Bridging this skills gap through training and apprenticeship programs is vital.
  • Safety Concerns:
  • Safety is a paramount concern in the construction sector, and young workers may be hesitant to enter an industry with perceived higher risks. Ensuring stringent safety measures and offering comprehensive training can address this concern.
  • Career Progression:
  • Young professionals seek opportunities for career advancement and development. The construction industry must showcase clear pathways for growth, from entry-level positions to senior management roles.
  • Work-Life Balance:
  • Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is increasingly important to the younger generation. Construction companies need to consider flexible work arrangements and other benefits to accommodate this need.
  • Technological Adaptation:
  • The construction industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of advanced technologies like BIM, drones, and AI. Embracing these innovations can make the industry more appealing to tech-savvy young talent.
  • Mentorship and Support:
  • Creating mentorship programs and providing ongoing support to young workers can significantly boost retention rates. Offering guidance and constructive feedback helps them feel valued and motivated.
A construction site safety inspector.
A construction site safety inspector.

People 1st is a major contract holder locally in Northern Ireland for Construction training at all levels, from school leavers through to Level 4 Site Supervisors.

We work with a range of construction specialists to get staff certified and qualified in joinery, bricklaying and roofing at our custom-built training facility in CITBNI headquarters at Crumlin. We have a team of talented tutors, and Don the Centre Manager and his team of support staff, there to assist each student in achieving their goals- whether you are new to the sector and wanting to achieve a Level 1 City and Guilds qualification or whether you are an experienced site supervisor, needing their Level 3 or Level 4 qualification to renew their CSR Gold Card. We cater for a range of levels and expertise and our team is always on hand and ready to create a bespoke training package that suits your company’s needs, so reach out to Don and the team at our CITBNI Training Academy on 028 9030 3982 or email Don at [email protected]. You can also find out more about our construction qualifications here:

https://people-1st.co.uk/qualification-categories/construction-building-services/

To read more about the round table discussion please find the link to the full article below:
https://www.agendani.com/building-a-skilled-and-competent-construction-industry/

What next for new talent in the construction industry locally?

Attracting and retaining young talent is crucial for the long-term sustainability and growth of the UK construction industry. By addressing the challenges of perception, skills development, safety, career progression, work-life balance, technological adaptation, and mentorship, the construction sector can create an environment that is not only appealing to young professionals but also fosters their growth and commitment. With concerted efforts, the industry can build a brighter future that benefits both the newcomers and the construction landscape as a whole.

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