Formworker

A formworker is responsible for installing and repairing temporary frameworks that support the building process during construction. These temporary structures can be made out of various materials but are most commonly either wood or metal and are used to help the moulding of concrete and other materials.

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What does a formworker do?

As a formworker, you’ll be responsible for using casts to form concrete slabs, support beams and walls, to support the building process during construction.

The job role of a formworker involves the following duties:

Creating forms for bridges, foundations, beams and staircases
Building structures on site using wood or putting together metal frames that have been made elsewhere
Dismantling casts without damaging them, so that they can be used again
Measuring, cutting and shaping wood or metal
Working closely with your team to pour concrete into moulds
Checking work for accuracy
Producing concrete blocks of exactly the right shape and size for whatever needs building.

How to become a formworker

There are several routes to becoming a formworker. You could do a college course, an apprenticeship, or on the job training by applying to an employer directly.

You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College/training provider

To start you on your journey to becoming a formworker, you could complete a relevant course provided by a local college or training provider, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery.

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.

You could complete an intermediate apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery to become a formworker.

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a construction company to gain onsite experience as a formworker. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced formworker and progress as your abilities improve.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a formworker. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

Find out more about work experience

Skills

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a formworker include:

Knowledge of building and construction
The ability to work well with your hands
Problem-solving skills
Practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
Attention to detail
Customer service skills.

Qualifications

England

To become a formworker, you could complete a:

Level 2 Formworker NVQ
Level 2 Formworker Apprenticeship

Scotland

To become a formworker, you could complete a:

Apprenticeship and a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) in Construction Civil Engineering (Formwork) at SCQF Level 5

Wales

To become a formworker, you could complete a:

Level 2 NVQ in Formwork Occupations
Level 2 apprenticeship in Formwork Occupations

You may need:

GCSE A*-C

How much could you earn as a formworker?

The expected salary for a formworker varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained formworkers can start at £25,000

• Trained with experience formworkers can earn up to £70,000*

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route.

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources

Career path and progression

As a formworker, you could continue training and transfer your skills to a similar role such as carpenter, or work as a general construction operative.