How do I train to become a builder ?

[kahunabean]

Can anyone tell me how I train to become a builder ? How long does it take to qualify, if that is, indeed, what you do....

[moonacre]

Once upon a time there were things called apprenticeships and these lasted 5-7 years. Nowdays, call yourself a builder and you are one. The nearest thing to training is likely to be a course at your local tech.

[skelly]

Apprenticeships do still exist. In fact there is a severe shortage of school leavers wanting to become a skilled tradesman. When people leave school they are encouraged to go to university because this is how you will get a good job and earn lots of money. Now there are many graduates working in jobs which they are over qualified for and a major shortage of good plumbers, joiners, electricians, etc. If you are young enough kahunabean, I would recomend starting an apprenticeship in your desired trade as the construction Industry can be rewarding. P.S. By the end of 2003 every operative working on any major construction site in the UK will have to possess a passport style identity card which states what qualifications you have and the relevant skills. This is designed to stop the "cowboys".

[sddsddean]

For more info, contact the CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) at Bircham Newton in Norfolk. I know they have a web site, so you should be able to find them on line with a search.