It’s National Apprenticeship Week from 9th-15th February 2026, which Go Construct is delighted to support. It’s a time to celebrate the opportunities and experiences of apprentices, both in construction and more generally in industries across the UK.
Why join the construction industry?
Construction is a diverse and inclusive industry, with more than 180 careers to choose from. You could be working in traditional ‘on site’ trades like roofing and bricklaying, or careers in architecture and engineering. Digital roles are also increasing all the time in construction, with new technology becoming more and more integrated into the way construction projects are planned and built.
Whether you prefer working on construction sites or in an office-based role, or a combination of the two, there’s an opportunity for you. There are apprenticeships for over 100 different construction roles currently available in the UK, at a range of levels.
There is also high demand for construction workers, and huge opportunities in construction. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that the UK needs 239,300 new workers in construction by 2029 to meet Britain’s construction needs. Construction apprentices are joining an industry that is set to grow over the decades to come.
Meet construction apprentices Paige and Sam
There is nothing better than hearing the experiences of real construction apprentices.
Bricklaying trainee Sam Kitchen and apprentice plasterer Paige Thomas both competed in the 2025 SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers, a competition which showcases the skills of construction trainees and apprentices. We found time to catch up with them and find out about why they decided to get into construction, what they most enjoy about their roles and their hopes for the future.
Why become a construction apprentice?
Sam: Ever since I was young I was working with my grandad in his workshop. I was always around the garden and helping out and that got me into the bricklaying trade because I always enjoyed like hands-on practical stuff. I found it hard at school because of my dyslexia – I was always told that I wouldn't be able to do things, but when I knuckled down, I proved people wrong and ended up doing well in school.
Paige: I started working in plastering when I was about 14 or 15 with my dad. We actually lived in Spain and throughout that time I consistently worked with him. When we came back home I just carried it on and he's been my biggest inspiration since I was a little girl.
What do construction apprentices do?
Sam: In addition to my three days a week doing a multi-skills course at college, I work at Noll Construction in Bradford. That’s two days a week and it's perfect because that will lead onto a full apprenticeship.
Paige: With my plastering apprenticeship, I do four days a week at work and Fridays at college, where I can spend time on what I need to practice on. On my college day I get the opportunity to do what I want and to build up my skills.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Sam: The creative side of bricklaying is something I enjoy because you can build whatever you want from them. I always enjoyed the creative subjects at school. I did photography at school for GCSE and that's become my hobby.
Paige: I enjoy transforming a room that could be full of mould or damp and turn it into a bright liveable space. It makes me feel really rewarded and like I've come into plastering to transform people's lives.
What are your ambitions for the future?
Sam: My final goal is to be a general builder, so a multi-skills construction apprenticeship is perfect for me.
Paige: There's still a lack of women in the construction industry and I've seen it firsthand. My aspiration is to open up a female-based construction business. I think it's important to prove to people that you can be who you want to be without society bringing you down.
National Apprenticeship Week 2026
This year’s National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 9th-15th February 2026. There are events right across the country, from apprenticeship fairs to open evenings being held by employers and training providers. You’ll find out about the benefits of apprenticeships, get apprentice insights from people like Sam and Paige, and make contacts with employers that might help get that all important foot in the door.
Tips for aspiring construction apprentices
There are plenty of construction apprenticeships out there, but to secure one you will need to make an apprenticeship application, and impress your employer.
- Don’t just look for apprenticeship vacancies online – approach local employers directly, or ask for recommendations from family and friends
- Write a good cover letter – new for each application, well-structured, and no more than 1 side of A4
- Write a concise CV that sells your skills and personal attributes
- Prepare thoroughly for your apprenticeship interview. Be confident but honest about your strengths and weaknesses
- Once your apprenticeship starts, make sure you are punctual and polite
- Create a profile on Go Construct Careers to view current apprenticeship opportunities.
More about construction apprenticeships
How much can you earn on an apprenticeship?
You’ll earn at least the minimum wage as a construction apprentice, but depending on how old you are you’ll be paid more, up to the age of 21 and over. The minimum wage rises each year, with the next rise set to come into force in April 2026. Find out what the current apprenticeship wages are.
How long does an apprenticeship last?
Most construction apprenticeships last up to 2 years, but some can be shorter than this, and some, like degree apprenticeships, can take longer to complete. Level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeships in England usually take 12-18 months, and Level 3 (advanced) apprenticeships 2-4 years.
Have Sam and Paige inspired you to build a career in construction? Learn more with Go Construct
Find out about what’s happening during National Apprenticeship Week near you, and learn more about the 180 different careers available in construction.