Scaffold is usually made of metal tubes, fitting and metal or timber platforms, put together by scaffolders so that workers can reach the parts of the structure they're working on. Safety is paramount, both for the people working on the scaffold and those below.
Not surprisingly, you’ll need a good head for heights for this role. You'll also need to be responsible as the safety of many others will depend on your work. A good understanding of maths is also beneficial.
There are no specific academic requirements to train as scaffolder, although GCSE passes / Standard Grades in Maths, English and Technology will be helpful for the calculations, measurements and theory.
Training follows the Construction Industry Scaffolder's Record Scheme (CISRS) through three routes:
• A 2-week induction scheme at CITB-ConstructionSkills followed by on-site work and training towards NVQ/SVQ Level 2.
• A 42-week full time course at a National Construction College. This includes on-site work experience and leads the achievement of the Basic and Advanced Card, on completion of NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3.
• 5 years practical experience, a one week assessment and completion of NVQ/SVQ Level 2.
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees wage rates annually. Pay rates for apprentices in Scotland are set by SBATC. A good basic wage is available and can be boosted with the incentive schemes that many companies offer.
Scaffolding is also a good grounding for progression into many supervisory roles.
