Plan Your Future In Construction After SQA Results Day

We know how challenging SQA results day can be.

Whether you have achieved above and beyond what you were hoping for, or feel disappointed in your results, you may be wondering what happens now. Can you do a construction apprenticeship with your National 5 and Advanced Higher grades?

There will always be choices available to you, especially in an industry like construction. We’re going to look at some of the options for construction careers, with insights from people already with jobs in the trade.  

Routes into construction after SQA results day

School leavers looking to get into construction can do a Modern Apprenticeship. There are over 100 to choose from and are designed to help you gain skills, experience and qualifications in your industry.

After National 5 SQA

To be accepted on a Modern Apprenticeship in Scotland, you will need to have National 5 grade passes at Level C or above in Maths and English. You might also need passes in specific subjects related to the job but work experience will count in your favour if you don’t have all the right grades.

After Advanced Higher SQA

After taking your Highers you could apply for a Graduate Apprenticeship. These are similar to degree apprenticeships in England, enabling you to learn at a high level while being paid a salary. The range of graduate apprenticeships is growing all the time and the Construction and the Built Environment programme includes opportunities to train in the following professions:

• Building services engineer
• Building surveyor
• Site manager
• Stonemason
• Carpenter
• Civil engineer

Real-life success stories

Catherine Ashcroft, Sean MacDonald and Peter Baikie are all Go Construct STEM Ambassadors. That means they are advocates for the construction industry and can tell young people what it is like working in construction.

Catherine’s story

Catherine Ashcroft is the Education coordinator at the Eric Wright Group, a leading construction company. She has a background in teaching and sport but came into construction as a career change.

“I support young people moving into the industry and I hope I’ve inspired many students to follow their dreams. Construction is an exciting industry to work in and there’s a niche for everyone whatever your strengths. Talk to people in construction. Find out why they love the jobs they do. Most of all, if you see an opportunity, take it.”

Sean’s story

Sean MacDonald is a Site Manager at BAM Construction.

“I was about 16 when I knew I wanted to go into construction”, says Sean. “Dad was a road supervisor and some of my uncles were carpenters and ran their own businesses. An opportunity for a joinery apprenticeship came up and I took it. 

“I didn't need any qualifications to start. I got my apprenticeship and went on to get an HND (Higher National Diploma) in construction management, ending up with an honours degree in construction management from Glasgow Caledonian University. During the holidays I would work as a joiner and earn enough money to study full-time for the rest of the term.”

Peter’s story

Peter Baikie is a Project Manager at Robertson Construction Northern. He left school at 16.

“I fancied the outdoor life and making something with my hands”, says Peter. “I spent three weeks doing work experience on a building site and I really enjoyed the camaraderie. Bricklaying looked good so I asked about an apprenticeship. I didn't really need any qualifications. Enthusiasm is the most important factor in getting a job.

Peter has been involved in all kinds of construction and is now inspiring others to start a career in construction.

“I looked around one day and thought, 'Where are all the young ones?’ I wanted to take a more active role in encouraging young people into the profession. A lot of teachers and lecturers don't have an appreciation of all the different roles in construction. There's no job in construction that a woman can't do as well or better than a man. But there aren't many young women being told about opportunities and roles in the trade.  

Go Construct STEM ambassador top tips for getting into construction

Here are some of Catherine, Sean and Peter’s top tips if you are looking to start a career in construction:

• “Don’t be afraid to try and don’t be afraid to fail”
• “You don’t need to be in a hurry. Try a variety of things before you decide. If you’re not sure what to do upfront, don’t panic. Try things you’re interested in. Don’t think this is now what you have to do.”
• “The good thing about construction is you can be doing almost anything. There are endless opportunities.”
• “If you’re not sure what to do after your results, just follow your interests. Any job opportunity that arises and any work experience can help you in your future career.”