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Let's Talk Construction Careers Final 10-31-24 (optimized)

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As part of their Community Renewal Fund Project, Scottish Borders Construction Forum commissioned sample films to engage young people in careers in the built environment. This film is aimed at secondary school pupils to provide information on the range of job roles available within the built environment sector. The aim of the film is to inform subject choices for future careers.

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How Do You Build A Bridge by Flatpack Creative

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Entertaining 2 minute video overview of why the built environment matters in our everyday life, posing the question: Are you the hero the world needs?

See RESOURCES for other great content by Built Environment Skills in Schools.

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This activity asks students to observe the buildings around them and the materials they are built from. The challenge is to design their own building, thinking about material choice and research the jobs involved within the construction industry. The challenge finishes by students posing a question for someone who works within the construction industry, thinking about what they have learnt.

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Makedo kits contain child-friendly tools to cut, shape and join recycled cardboard. The awesomeness of Makedo is that children learn by doing, creating, experimenting, failing and maybe succeeding but that's not essential. The creations then open the door to imaginative play where the child is protagonist in a hack-able world of their own making.

Makedo kits are available to borrow - contact us for details

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Makedo is a simple to use, open-ended system of tools for creative cardboard construction. Build imaginative and useful creations from upcycled (repurposed) everyday cardboard. Makedo comes to life in collaborative creative environments such as classrooms, maker spaces, museums and of course homes.

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Help! We Need a Builder: Britain's Skills Shortage

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Help! We Need a Builder: Britain's Skills Shortage

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Michelle Ackerley finds out why Britain is facing a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople over the next decade amid soaring demand.

Note: you have to be registered with STV and have a postcode within their viewing area to watch this.

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STV Player | Tonight Help! We Need a Builder: Britain’s Skills Shortage

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Michelle Ackerley finds out why Britain is facing a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople over the next decade amid soaring demand.

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Sketchfab challenge

Visit our Sketchfab profile and explore our 3D models of historic  buildings.
Models include Smaillholm Towers, Edinburgh Castle and the Great Polish Map of Scotland

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View the profile and 3D models by Historic Environment Scotland (@HistoricEnvironmentScotland). Historic Environment Scotland is the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland's historic environment

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As part of their Community Renewal Fund project, Scottish Borders Construction Forum commissioned sample films to engage young people in future built environment careers. Quest for Net Zero is aimed at Primary School Children

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Quest for Net Zero  by  Flatpack Creative

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FUN WITH TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS:  FREE CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES

HES have free printables and children’s activities, to get young people learning and nurture their interest in Scotland’s traditional buildings! These free self-led activities have something for every learner and are easy to do from home or in the classroom. Have fun with paper, complete a wordsearch and check out 3D models on the Sketchfab website. Use what you’ve got available to explore the building materials of traditional buildings.

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When the school holidays approach it's best to be prepared. With our free printables and children's activities, keep young people learning and nurture their interest in Scotland's traditional buildings! Our free self-led activities have something for every learner and are easy to do from home or in the classroom. Have fun with paper, complete a wordsearch and check out our 3D models on the Sketchfab website. Use what you've got available to explore the building materials of traditional buildings.

Get inspired with Scotland's built heritage and don't forget to share your creations with us, we'd love to see them. Tag us on Twitter using @HESEngineShed.

Chocolate casting

Our most delicious activity and fun to do together! Learn about cast iron as a traditional building material. Explore the skill of casting iron into different shapes to create different objects. Then put your new knowledge to good use, but instead of casting with iron, make your creations with chocolate!
Download Chocolate Casting
How Was It Built? Colouring Sheets

Age: Various levels of difficulty available
Supervised: No

Get creative with the kids or bring some mindfulness to your day as you colour in sheets of Historic Environment Scotland sites. These include Stirling Castle, Melrose Abbey and the Blackhouse in Arnol. Learn about the materials these places were built with and the people who made them.
Download Colouring Sheets
How Was It Built? Wordsearches

Age: Various levels of difficulty available
Supervised: No

Stone, thatch and timber! Enjoy learning about Scotland's traditional buildings and building materials with our wordsearches. Get to know different building features and terms. Try out our easy versions or test your skills with something more challenging.
Download Wordsearches
Make it with Paper: Scotland's Historic Places

Age: Various levels of difficulty available
Supervised: Fun to do together

Learn how some of Scotland's most incredible buildings and structures were made, then have a go at creating them yourself with paper! Our activities include 'Tenement House', 'Tower House', 'Materials Construction' and 'Changing Cities'. Colour and decorate your designs with what you have available.
Download Paper Models
Digital Explorers: Fun with Apps

New Sketchfab challenge

At Historic Environment Scotland, we care for more than 40,000 objects at 160 properties across Scotland. Discover some of these objects digitally using the Sketchfab website. Test what you've learned and answer the questions in this new self-led activity challenge.
Download SketchFab Challenge
Share your creations

Have you made something using our self-led activities? We'd love to see your creations. Share them with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Find out more

Want to see more examples of Scotland's traditional buildings? Find photos and facts in the HES archives and collections.

Discover more about Scotland's traditional buildings from our blog:

Find more learning activities relating to Scotland's history and heritage on the Historic Environment Scotland website.

About the authors

Katie Sludden is a Technical Education Officer, working at the Engine Shed as part of the Technical Outreach and Education team. She loves to develop engaging, inspiring and educational content. See more blogs by Katie.

Anne Schmidt is a Content Officer, working at the Engine Shed. Her background is building conservation and she enjoys telling people about different traditional building materials, particularly lime and sustainable refurbishment. See more blogs by Anne.

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Free Children's Activities | Engine Shed Blog

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With our free children's activities, keep young people learning and nurture their interest in Scotland's traditional buildings!

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CAREER TIPS FROM AWARD-WINNING STONEMASONS

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CAREER TIPS FROM AWARD-WINNING STONEMASONS

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CAREER TIPS FROM AWARD-WINNING STONEMASONS
Our built environment is largely made of stone and at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) we train new generations to look after this stone through programmes at our Skills Training Centres

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If you're thinking of training as a stonemason, or know someone that might be interested, read on to hear from some of our amazing apprentices who might just convince you!

In Scotland, our built environment is largely made of stone and at Historic Environment Scotland (HES) we train new generations to look after this stone through programmes here at the Engine Shed and our Skills Training Centres in Elgin and Stirling.

Our apprentice stonemasons excelled in 2022 and have been recognised at the Natural Stone Show's Emerging Talent Awards in 2023. Now fully qualified, we meet Luke Maher and Douglas Stevens as they share their journeys to help you carve your own career in stonemasonry.

Luke and Douglas, why did you choose stonemasonry?

Luke:

I first discovered stonemasonry when working with the Antonine Wall squad doing grounds maintenance and got to know the Blackness squad of masons. This sparked my interest and when an apprenticeship came up at Doune Castle, I applied for it and was lucky enough to be successful. The idea of a practical job has always appealed to me so the chance to get to learn a traditional skill like stonemasonry was something that I found very rewarding and interesting.

Douglas:

I chose stonemasonry because I was keen to develop a practical and in-depth knowledge of working with stone. I already had an interest in historic buildings but wanted to learn more about how these structures were built, as well as the skills needed to maintain them. I had previously studied History of Art and Sculpture and I knew I wanted to learn specialised hand skills to complement and develop my understanding.

What types of stonemasonry are there?

Luke & Douglas:

Lots! [The main two are] cutting stone (banker masonry) or building stone into its finished place (fixer masonry). Fixing is all on site building and constructing masonry work, whereas a banker mason will be in a workshop cutting and hewing (splitting) pieces of stone. [There are also] additional skills such as letter cutting and stone carving.

What advice would you give someone looking to become an apprentice stonemason?

Luke:

Having a willingness to learn would be a big one. There is so much to stonemasonry; even after your apprenticeship you're constantly learning, so being able to take advice and help from others is key. Having patience and attention to detail is good because working with stone can be a time-consuming process. Being able to appreciate the process and take pride in your work is a big thing that I discovered.

Get out there and find a stonemasonry company that can offer the hands-on experience and knowledge with the wary eye of a tradesperson to keep you right.

Douglas:

Be willing to learn and ask questions. There is so much out there to learn, whether that's from your college lecturers, your colleagues on site, in books, podcasts, or from the internet. In my experience people are very happy and open to sharing knowledge and skills and any extra information you can gather early on in your journey is always valuable. I would also recommend looking at the construction and heritage sectors in a wider sense. There are so many related skills that can inspire you or show you how stonemasonry fits within the bigger picture.

What do you study as a stonemasonry apprentice?

Luke:

As an apprentice you'll learn both the theory and practical sides to the trade. [You learn] a very broad range of things at college, from new builds and all the building standards to conservation works and repairs. You learn and develop countless skills during this time, lots of industry skills like the cutting and building but also the personal skills, the confidence in your own abilities.

Douglas:

During the apprenticeship you learn all the important skills required to be a stonemason. As well as the proper techniques for building and cutting stone there are lots of other related skills such as drawing and interpreting technical drawings, basic geometry and mathematics. The apprenticeship is split into two main parts with teaching done at a college or from a training provider as well as time spent on site, where you gather evidence for your portfolio.

You've worked on some interesting projects, like Doune Castle, Arbroath Abbey and a work placement in Inverness at the Victorian Market. What were the highlights?

Luke:

Being able to travel round all these interesting sites and getting to be part of some really cool projects meeting new people and learning from them. As part of the training at college, I had the opportunity to take part in the SkillBuild competitions and although pretty stressful at the time, looking back on them, they were fun and have given me valuable skills I will take on throughout my career.

Douglas:

Working to install a tracery window at Dunkeld Cathedral (Perthshire) was definitely a highlight for me. This important historic site has a fascinating history and some unusual stonework and I was proud to contribute to the ongoing maintenance and repair of the structure. I was part of a team of apprentices who undertook the full process from start to finish including setting out the window full size, creating templates, cutting the stone units and then building them in using traditional skills, materials and techniques. We were supported by experienced tradespeople who guided us through the process and as a result we learnt a great deal about carrying out high quality masonry repairs to historic structures.

What are you doing now?

Luke:

Once I finished my apprenticeship, [I became an] Assistant Works Manager, so I'm currently enjoying this new learning process and the experience it's giving me.

Douglas:

I was recently awarded a place on The Princes Foundation's "Building Craft Programme " which supports those working in the construction sector to push their skills to the next level and continue on their journey to becoming the next generation of master craftspeople. I'm really excited to work alongside other passionate makers and develop skills and networks in an interdisciplinary environment.

We advertise all apprenticeship vacancies on the Historic Environment Scotland website when available.

Find out more

Find out more about our apprentice stonemason's 2022 SkillBuild win.

If you're considering a career in stonemasonry, find out more about stonemason jobs including average salaries and working conditions with My World of Work's stonemason profile. You can also find out more about building conservation training and skills development with our web pages.

For more inspiration of stonemasonry career paths, learn about former HES stonemason Lara's pathway to stonemasonry.

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Top early career tips from award-winning stonemasons - Engine Shed

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If you're thinking of training as a stonemason, or know someone that might be interested, discover what it's like from amazing apprentices.

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What effect did infrastructure have on buildings 

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What effect did infrastructure have on buildings 

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Glasgow was built with local stones until 1890 when the trains were introduced and the started importing red sandstone from Dumfries.

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Skills Investment Plan For Scotland’s construction sector 2015

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The Engineering Pre-Apprenticeship Programme is available to young people aged 16–19, providing a great foundation and valuable first step into the challenging and rewarding engineering industry equipping them with the knowledge and relevant experience to enhance their skill set and employability.

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What job in the Built Environment might suit you

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What job in the Built Environment might suit you

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Try out Go Constructs quiz to find out which construction personality type you are.
https://www.goconstruct.org/educational-resources/personality-quiz/

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Apprenticeships | Go Construct
Construction apprenticeships are a highly valued entry route into the industry.

There are 100's of apprenticeships to choose from.

Most people have heard of carpenters, bricklayers and architects, but ever thought of becoming a steeplejack, a conservation expert, an archaeologist, or a tunnelling engineer?

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How do I find an employer?

In order to become a construction apprentice, you'll need to find an employer who can provide on-the-job training. This could be a small or large business, a local firm, a family member or a self-employed person.

If you haven't got an employer yet, don't worry. There are lots of ways to find someone who wants to hire you as an apprentice:

Apply for apprenticeships in England, Scotland or Wales

Register and upload your CV to job sites such as Indeed or Totaljobs , where you'll also be able to set up job alerts that get sent to your email, and employers can also contact you directly.

Go direct to construction companies' websites to check the apprenticeships/vacancies section and follow their social media channels.

Contact your local college, specialist training provider or apprenticeship managing agency to register your interest as they may be able to help you find an employer.

Ask your friends, family or neighbours to see if they have any apprenticeships where they work.

When speaking to employers, let them know that, depending on their circumstances, they could receive up to £14,000 in grants from the government or Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) for taking you on. This will help them to meet the costs of employing you.

Funding is also available via the Apprenticeship Levy or through certain government incentives. This will help them to meet the costs of employing you.

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In order to become a construction apprentice, you'll need to find an employer who can provide on-the-job training. This could be a small or large business, a local firm, a family member or a self-employed person. If you haven't got an employer yet, don't worry.

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Find more than 30,000 jobs, apprenticeships, courses and volunteering opportunities all in one place

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Young Persons Guarantee - Opportunity Finder

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Find more than 35,000 jobs, apprenticeships, courses and volunteering opportunities all in one place.

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Four interactive animations you can explore the different areas of construction to see the huge range of roles available - from building houses and public buildings to roads and railways. Aimed at PS and BGE

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Search the wide range of courses available at the College

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Use the options below to find the right course for YOU!

For information on specialist courses and opportunities available at the College, visit our Knowledge Hub.

Filter our courses

Use one, two, or all three filters to narrow down your course search. Let us help you take the next step.

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Use the options below to find the right course for YOU! For information on specialist courses and opportunities available at the College, visit our Knowledge Hub. Use one, two, or all three filters to narrow down your course search. Let us help you take the next step.

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How Do You Build A Bridge

As part of their Community Renewal Fund Project, Scottish Borders Construction Forum commissioned sample films to engage young people in careers in the built environment. This film is aimed at secondary school pupils to provide information on the range of job roles available

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ScottishPower has committed to the Young Person’s Guarantee to support the UK’s Green Recovery and help give young people the chance to succeed and they are offers lots of entry paths Due to the growth in Green energy they have over 1000 new job in the next 12month alone

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Lots of short videos about  careers and work in Construction

Painter and Decorator Job Explained in 60 Seconds

Site Manager in Construction

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Borders Construction Forum - Home | Facebook

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Connecting the curriculum to careers within the built environment

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Built Environment – Smarter Transformation

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Built Environment – Smarter Transformation

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BE-ST provide the connections, infrastructure and culture needed to solve the sector’s most pressing challenges. They bring together world-class academia, government bodies and industry at all levels to future-proof the commercial and environmental road forward for our sector.

BE-ST is the launchpad to a zero carbon built environment.

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The Scottish Civic Trust’s My Place Photography Competition is a Scotland-wide built environment photography competition for young people ages 4-18.
The 2023 competition is open for entries from May 2023 to February 2024.

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SWAP provides information about which university courses you can progress to from college Access courses

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Listen to Kerry's story as she became a plumber with the Borders housing association SBHA

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My World of Work Live: Meet the Expert - Town Planning - Rhiannon Moylan from Montagu Evans

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Young people influencing design and place 

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Young people influencing design and place 

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Our projects - A Place in Childhood

At A Place in Childhood, we help you to involve young people in your projects and create better designed places and practices led by their input. For planners, architects and place-makers aspiring to create truly child-friendly places and developments

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Enabling Child-Friendly Places & Planning

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Historic Environment Scotland - Make & Create

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Historic Environment Scotland - Make & Create

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1 - Castle Construction Challenge - 4 sections
2 - Design a cardboard castle stronghold

3 -Use what you have at home to build seven castle features
4 -Make Dorothea in her Tower, inspired by the Maiden's Leap story

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Learn, create and play | Lead Public Body for Scotland’s Historic Environment

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Enjoy activities inspired by Scotland’s heritage!

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What are apprenticeships and how they can grow  your career

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What are apprenticeships and how they can grow  your career

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Apprenticeships | Apprenticeships.scot: Work, Learn & Earn

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Find an apprenticeship vacancy

Employers

Grow your business with an apprenticeship

We'll help you find the right fit for your business and support you with the costs. You'll get the skills you need for the growth you want.

A Modern Apprenticeship was the best way for Viktoryia to learn on the job and gain experience in engineering.

Watch Viktoryia's story

Get the experience only an apprenticeship can offer

I knew a Graduate Apprenticeship would be a good idea. I'll get my full Bachelor's degree, work full-time, gain experience and I'm getting paid. It's a win-win in every aspect.

Watch Goudham's story

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Education Scotland CLD team in partnership with Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) 

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Education Scotland CLD team in partnership with Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) 

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A World Heritage Colouring Sheet can be used a mindfulness task and an introduction to historic sites in Scotland. Six Scottish World Heritage Sites colouring sheet poster

Viewers of all ages are invited to take a tour of Edinburgh Castle with tour guide Mhairi: A guided tour of Edinburgh Castle

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Education Scotland CLD team have been working in partnership with Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) to support the creation and distribution of free community resources from museums, galleries and heritage centres across Scotland.

Museums Galleries Scotland are the National Development Body for the Scottish museums sector. MGS support more than 400 museums and galleries across Scotland, through strategic investment, advice, advocacy and skills development. Find out more about MGS on their website.

A series of webinars were facilitated in Spring 2021 which allowed museums and galleries the opportunity to showcase their resources to CLD practitioners. This gave practitioners the opportunity to give feedback on each resource and support the development of specific CLD resources. Webinars will continue throughout the year. Check their events page for future dates.

Resource Links:
Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland have created a number of resources that could be used across the CLD sector to support learners engagement with Scotland's historic environment.

Located in the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office in Edinburgh, the museum explores money as well as art and design, technology, crime, trade and security.

Memory Bank is a set of free online Adult Learning reminiscence resources all about money. It has been created to spark memories and start interesting conversations. A loan box filled with fascinating objects will soon be available. These resources are aimed at older people.

Money Marvels are a series of short videos and fun activities to help children and young people talk about money.

LGBTQIA+ Hidden histories trail is a collaboration between young people from Impact Arts, LGBT Youth Scotland, Scotland 365 youth engagement team and National Museum of Scotland to highlight LGBTQIA+ stories from across the museum's collections. Explore the LGBTQIA+ Hidden Histories Trail.

Heritage Hero Awards are a wider achievement award open to all and designed to complement history heritage and archaeology projects.

Explore your Neighbourhood using maps, photographs, and your own observation and recording skills to learn how the area you live in has changed over time. Designed to support practitioners to take learners outside on a learning journey.

Archaeology Detectives Explore a site using genuine archaeological skills! Each session can be freestanding, or they can be used together as part of a project. The Project Guide explains how to do this in more detail. All resources have been designed to support practitioners with no prior experience, and activities can be adapted to suit participants of all ages.

The Heritage resources portal Is designed to be a one stop shop for all Scotland's Heritage organisations most popular resources.

National Galleries of Scotland
Your Art World is an online community where 3-18 years olds are challenged to make and share their art. Every term pupils across Scotland will create a new set of art challenges to inspire children and young people to get making.

Improvement questions

How could these resources support interactive learning with learners?

How am I supporting children and adults to continue to engage in wider learning opportunities?

How can I further develop partnerships with museums and galleries to enhance the offer for all learners?

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Free CLD resources from museums, galleries and heritage centres across Scotland

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Education Scotland CLD team have been working in partnership with Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) to support the creation and distribution of free community resources from museums, galleries and heritage centres across Scotland. Museums Galleries Scotland are the National Development Body for the Scottish museums sector.

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STEM resources for the Built Environment 

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STEM resources for the Built Environment 

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https://www.stem.org.uk/resources/community/collection/63965/construction-and-built-environment-other-sources-ideas

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Construction and the Built Environment (Other sources of ideas)

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BEFS is an umbrella body for organisations working in the built environment in Scotland. BEFS informs, debates and advocates on the strategic issues, opportunities and challenges facing Scotland’s historic and contemporary built environment.
Built Environment Forum Scotland (befs.org.uk)

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What does a surveyor do and how can I become one 

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What does a surveyor do and how can I become one 

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What is surveying? (rics.org)

Surveyors work closely with a wide range of people: architects and engineers, bankers and ecologists, town planners and property developers. And they use the latest technologies: flying drones to map land and measure buildings, creating virtual reality models of buildings, and using Big Data to tackle global issues like climate change, migration and urbanisation.

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Surveying has been an essential part of societal development since the dawn of human history. From the building of skyscrapers in the built environment to works of art, the rain forests of the Amazon and the Masai Mara in Kenya; surveying has kept water running, traffic flowing and people moving for centuries.

But what is surveying and what does it mean in the modern world? Though surveying plays an imperative role in the success of all construction projects, it isn't just about construction. Used in key areas like transportation, communication, land apportionment and mapping, and environmental issues, it is also an important tool for research in many scientific disciplines.

Whether it's used to addressglobal issues such as climate change, regenerate deprived areas or pioneer high-tech cities, the true meaning of surveying for the future is to shape the way we live. Discover how else surveying is transforming the world around us and how you can enter this rewarding profession by using the links below.

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What is surveying and what does it mean for the future? | RICS

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See how surveyors shape our communities and tackle global issues like climate change as we answer, 'what is surveying?'

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Apprenticeship opportunities will reopen for applications in winter 2022 and include Engineering, Chemistry, Cyber Security, Renewable Energy and Project Support

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If you're passionate about tackling climate change, our Apprenticeship programmes offer the opportunity to develop an exciting career whilst helping to create a more sustainable energy future

Together, we'll help Britain achieve Net Zero

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If you're passionate about tackling climate change, our Apprenticeship programmes offer the opportunity to develop an exciting career whilst helping to create a more sustainable energy future Together, we'll help Britain achieve Net Zero

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The STEM site has lots of lessons, activities and videos. This link relates to the search topic ' construction'

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Architectural technician | My World of Work

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Architectural technician | My World of Work

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Architectural technician | My World of Work

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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.

Foundation Apprenticeships

Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 can help you get a head start with this type of job.

You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification (the same level as a Higher) plus valuable work placement experience and skills you can't learn in a classroom.

Interested? Find out what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.

Qualifications

To become a professionally qualified Architectural Technician, you can study an HNC or HND such as a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in Architectural Technology or a degree (SCQF level 9/10) in Architectural Technology, Construction or the Built Environment.

A list of HNC and HND courses approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) is available on the CIAT website. A list of CIAT-accredited honours degrees is also available.

Entry to an Architectural Technologies HNC or HND requires Nationals (SCQF level 4/5) and one to two Highers (SCQF level 6), or a National Certificate in the Built Environment for some courses.

Entry to a degree course usually requires four Highers and National 5s.

With a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) in Architectural Technologies you may be able to gain entry to the second or third year of some degrees (SCQF level 9/10).

Edinburgh Napier University and Robert Gordon University offer Architectural Technologies degrees in Scotland.

It is possible to enter this role without a degree, or with qualifications that are not recognised by the CIAT, via the CIAT's profile candidate route. However this requires substantial experience and possibly further qualifications, this can take some time to achieve.

It is possible to progress towards chartered membership of the CIAT or a career as a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT).

Useful subjects

English (required by most courses)

Maths (required by most courses)

A science subject, in particular, Physics (required by most courses)

Design and Technology

You will also need

You can register for student membership of the CIAT while studying an approved higher education qualification, you are then eligible to upgrade your membership to associate level on graduation (ACIAT).

To undertake the Architectural Professional and Occupation Performance (POP) record, either while studying, using evidence from work completed during the programme and the year out placement, or once you are in employment. If you have completed a relevant approved or accredited qualification you may be exempt from some elements of the POP.

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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need. Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 can help you get a head start with this type of job.

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PAS are a charity and social enterprise that helps people to navigate the planning system, supporting a planning system that is inclusive, positive and innovative, where individuals and communities have the opportunity to shape the future of their place in an impartial, open and inclusive way. elp ensure that all voices are heard.

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We're here to help you navigate the planning system and to shape the future of your place.

Who We Are

We are a charity and social enterprise that helps people to navigate the planning system. We support a planning system that is inclusive, positive and innovative, where individuals and communities have the opportunity to shape the future of their place in an impartial, open and inclusive way. Through our facilitation-based approach, we help people participate in the planning system to help ensure that all voices are heard.

For nearly 30 years now, volunteering has been at the heart of what we do and we continue to be a volunteer-led organisation, now supported by a network of over 400 specialist volunteers, professionals from across the built environment sector. Find out more: Who We Are

If you'd like to stay up to date with our work, subscribe to our newsletter.

What We Do

Our public Advice Service offers a free, impartial and confidential planning advice service, provided by our specialist volunteers, all of whom are chartered planners. We provide skills training and engagement training and support for community groups, planners, elected members and public bodies, as well as to seldom-heard groups who often cannot readily engage in the planning system, including children and young people. We support community organisations to develop and deliver their own aspirations through local place plans and other community-led plans. Find out more: What We Do

If you'd like to stay up to date with our work, subscribe to our newsletter.

Are you looking to find out more about local place plans or other plans to benefit your community?
Find out more here

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We're here to help you navigate the planning system and to shape the future of your place. We are a charity and social enterprise that helps people to navigate the planning system. We support a planning system that is inclusive, positive and innovative, where individuals and communities have the opportunity to shape the future of their place in an impartial, open and inclusive way.

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Institute of Historic Building Conservation

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Institute of Historic Building Conservation

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Welcome to the Institute of Historic Building Conservation
(IHBC)

The Institute has branches throughout the UK
Scotland

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Scottish Civic Trust aim to support thriving, beautiful and well cared for buildings and places.
They also run a national photography award for those 4-18

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What's it really like to have a construction job

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What's it really like to have a construction job

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What's it really like to have a construction job? Take a look at these stories from people working in construction jobs across the UK.
A Day in the Life of… Stories of People in Construction | Go Construct

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PROVIDING INFORMATION AROUND CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION

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There is a role in construction for everyone, whether you’re good at maths and sciences, love woodwork or computers, or are great at organising projects.

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Go Construct (@goconstructuk)

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The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland (AHSS) 

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The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland (AHSS) 

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Advice, guidance and the supporting the protection of Scotland's Architectural Heritage

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Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland

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Published biannually, the magazine contains regular sections including news from the historic built environment sector, reviews of books and exhibitions, reports from the Society's regional Cases Panels and Groups as well as feature articles from guest contributors.

The Journal, Architectural Heritage, is the only peer reviewed publication of new architectural heritage research in Scotland, and as such is an invaluable resource to the heritage conservation field.

Discover more about Scotland's built heritage and take an active part in its protection and preservation by becoming a member of the AHSS.
Membership Benefits

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Published biannually, the magazine contains regular sections including news from the historic built environment sector, reviews of books and exhibitions, reports from the Society's regional Cases Panels and Groups as well as feature articles from guest contributors.

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Nature, Beauty and Heritage for Everyone | National Trust for Scotland (nts.org.uk)

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Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage

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Scotland’s Garden and Landscape Heritage

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SGLH is a fully independent Scottish charity with a specifically Scottish focus, but we also work closely with The Gardens Trust and other partner organisations.
We organise historic garden and designed landscape surveys by volunteers and offer an extensive programme of events, including lectures, garden visits and study days.

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SGLH - Scotland's Garden and Landscape Heritage - SGLH

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SGLH is a registered charity, and our aim is to promote and protect Scotland's historic garden and designed landscape heritage.

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There are a variety of pathways in to a career in conservation, covering artefacts and collections, to and the route you take will completely depend on you, your learning style and the area of conservation you're looking to get in to.
Icon Internship Programme

Student Resources

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Networking and support for the Heritage community in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

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Historic Churches Scotland – Saving historic churches at risk

We are a charity that saves historic churches at risk. We work with communities to secure the future of their churches through expert conservation and creative regeneration.

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STBF is made up of a network of local traditional building forums with local representation who work together to highlight specific issues relating to traditional buildings and building skills and practices.

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STBF is made up of a network of local traditional building forums with local representation who work together to highlight specific issues relating to traditional buildings and building skills and practices.

Over Summer 2022 STBF will coordinate the Festival of Traditional Buildings.

Full details can be seen below.

All bookings are free and can be made via EVENTBRITE - and clicking on "registration" to choose the specific event.

For all enquiries relating to the festival please contact STBF Coordinator: John McKinney

Please see here for a map showing the venue.

22 Aug - 10:30 : Opening & Roof Slating Demo

Colin Tennant from Historic Environment Scotland opening the Festival of Traditional Buildings 2022

Roof slating is one of the oldest, and most popular forms of roof finishes worldwide. But did you know that not only is the material and practice sustainable, a well maintained slate roof can last for 100+ years. In this practical, expert-led demonstration, Scott Miller of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) bring the roof to you with an exciting and fun demonstration on the application and maintenance of slate roofing.

22 Aug -12:00 : Roof Leadwork Demonstration

In order to be well performing and energy efficient, a home must we wind and watertight and a roof is one of the key ways to achieve this! Leadwork is an ancient craft that not only results in a beautiful finish, it is one of the most resilient and sustainable roofing options. In this practical demonstration, Steve McLennan of The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) leads this practical, expert-led demonstration and guidance on lead burning and bossing. If you haven't seen roof leadwork in action, you're missing out!

22 Aug - 13:30: New Roles for Old Buildings

Expert stone conservator and SPAB Scotland Guardian Nic Boyes ACR presents on the incredible new opportunities for old buildings.

23 Aug - 10:30: Stonemasonry Demonstration

Join a stonemasonry expert from Historic Environment Scotland, who will be giving a stone carving demonstration with Nic Boyes from SPAB providing commentary and insight into the demonstration.

We are truly blessed to have such beautiful buildings across Scotland using local stone from castles to humble outbuildings. These buildings need to be repaired and maintained so they can both be enjoyed and homes for the next generation. We have a great expert-led practical demonstration of stonemasonry to highlight the skills and practices for doing so.

23 Aug - 12:00: DIY Building Maintenance Advice

Tyler Lott-Johnston from SPAB Scotland provides useful and practical advice on building maintenance.

Home maintenance, what you can do yourself - talk by SPAB helping homeowners develop a maintenance programme to keep your home in a good state of repair at minimal cost and what to do when a larger repair is required.

23 Aug - 13:30: Make it Energy Efficient!

Did you know that there are solar panels on Edinburgh Castle? Find out what you can do to a traditional building to make more energy efficient.

GLM will provide expert advice and guidance on what, and how, can be done with a traditional building to make it energy efficient.

Timber Sash & Case Windows are a key part of Scotland's traditional buildings and well maintained can last decades.

Find out how to maintain and repair your sash & case window appropriately so you maximise their life and minimise your costs.

24 Aug - 12:00: Lime Render Demonstration

The Scottish Lime Centre Trusts (Stone Federation GB) is bringing lime to the Festival!

Practical demonstration by Scottish Lime Centre Trust on the making and application of lime render. The slaking process of adding water, turning the traditional building material lime from calcium oxide (burnt lime or quicklime) into calcium hydroxide (slaked lime).

24 Aug - 13:30: Traditional Plastering

Practical demonstration on the making and application of traditional plaster by Kenneth Fisher. Finding out about the unique ingredients within traditional plaster and the importance of them and practical demonstration on how traditional plaster should be applied.

Painting & Decorating Demonstration - Practical demonstration on marbling and graining techniques from Nevin Decorators. See how a skilled tradesperson transforms a piece of MDF into looking like oak or marble. Needs to be seen to be believed.

25 Aug - 13:30: Building Stones Geology Tour

The stones that built Edinburgh are all around you! Why not join the British Geological Survey for a fun building stones tour in Edinburgh outlining how stone is formed and the importance of stone matching and bedding. Highlighting the stones, and their sources, used to build Edinburgh. Including samples of different stone and demonstrating the differences under a microscope.

A special day for all to come for fun, interactive activities for building enthusiasts of all ages.

Come along to try these activities all free of charge.

Soap Carving

Clay Gargoyles

Foam arch and building blocks

Colouring in sheets

Under 5 activities

Publications, banner

Roof Slating (TBC)

3D/Thermal Scanning/Surveying

Mini-Golf

BEFS aims to raise the profile of the forum and provide guidance and support for STBF and regional forums on widening partnerships and accessing the Scottish Government and Parliament. Further information is available on the STBF website. BEFS welcomes a grant from Historic Environment Scotland to fund the running and coordination of the Scottish Traditional Building Forum.

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STBF is made up of a network of local traditional building forums with local representation who work together to highlight specific issues relating to traditional buildings and building skills and practices. Full details can be seen below. All bookings are free and can be made via EVENTBRITE - and clicking on "registration" to choose the specific event.

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National Trust for Scotland -Garden Apprenticeship programme 

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National Trust for Scotland -Garden Apprenticeship programme 

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Garden apprenticeship – a career out… | National Trust for Scotland (nts.org.uk)

Are you interested in building the future of heritage gardens with us?

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Written by Ann Steele, Head of Heritage Gardening

We're delighted to offer more places on our Garden Apprenticeship programme for young people. Are you interested in building the future of heritage gardens with us?

We all know how tough the last year or so has been, and one of the hardest hit groups has been that of young people. That's why I'm so pleased that we're opening recruitment to our Garden Apprenticeship programme from 4 June to 2 July 2021. Aimed at 16-24-year-olds (or up to 29 if disabled or care-experienced), we hope this opportunity will both provide us with the future professional gardeners we need and set some young people on a rewarding career path.

For young people struggling to finish their education and facing an uncertain world of work, this has been such a difficult time. Those of us who have spent a lifetime in horticulture know just how rewarding a career it can be and we never tire of encouraging others to follow in our footsteps! We are extra motivated to do this, knowing there is a shortage of professional gardeners in the heritage sector with the skills we need to look after our special places.

We want to ensure our amazing gardens and designed landscapes will be well looked after in the future, which is why our Head Gardeners are so keen to develop new talent. So if you know of a young person for whom this opportunity might be the perfect launch-pad, please pass the word on!

We have some new training locations on offer this time, as well as some past favourites. Arduaine Garden, near Oban, Geilston Garden, near Helensburgh, Brodie Castle, near Forres and Falkland Palace Garden in Falkland are joining the programme for the first time, while Crathes Castle Garden and Pitmedden Garden join again, as their existing Garden Apprentices are due to finish in August.

Find out more details of all our Garden Apprentice vacancies.

We wish we could open this opportunity to older applicants too, as we know many people have been rethinking their existing career paths during these past months. However, as a charity, we're dependent on the financial support given to our training provider SRUC Oatridge College by Skills Development Scotland and this is targeted at younger age groups -it's what makes the formal training element of our programme possible. We're also very grateful to a donor who has generously supported travel to college and accommodation there, as well as extra experiences for our existing Garden Apprentices.

There are other routes into a gardening career for those looking to change track later on in life. It could be a training course at a local college or university, or distance-learning. A good place to start looking is the Grow Careers page of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture. Volunteering at a local Trust garden can be another way to build some experience - that's how I started!

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Garden apprenticeship - a career out of lockdown?

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Got a taste for gardening and the outdoors during the pandemic? Why not make a career of it?

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The Berwickshire Civic Society campaigns for the protection and enhancement of both the built and natural environment

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Icon’s vision is to protect, preserve and promote our treasured cultural heritage through cultivating skilled conservation professionals, supporting meaningful collaboration across the cultural heritage sector, and delivering public benefit through engagement and advocacy.

Icon - The Institute of Conservation

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Icon's vision is to protect, preserve and promote our treasured cultural heritage through cultivating skilled conservation professionals, supporting meaningful collaboration across the cultural heritage sector, and delivering public benefit through engagement and advocacy.

Icon's mission is to represent and support the practice and profession of conservation by promoting the public value of caring for cultural heritage and upholding high standards and ethics in conservation practice.

Icon ensures that the guardians and owners of objects, buildings and collections can access knowledgeable and passionate professionals who will help them safeguard the physical remains of our past for the future.
Our Charitable Objects are:
Conservation professionals work in a variety of disciplines. Many are conservators but Icon's membership of 2,300 individuals and organisations also embraces heritage scientists, craftspeople, architects, archivists and others. Most of our members are UK-based but many also work internationally.

Icon is committed to promoting the positive role that conservation can play in inspiring and informing climate action. We are also actively seeking ways to reduce our organisational carbon footprint and supporting our members to embed environmental sustainability in their professional activities. Further details can be found in our Environmental Statement.

We will:

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Icon's vision is to protect, preserve and promote our treasured cultural heritage through cultivating skilled conservation professionals, supporting meaningful collaboration across the cultural heritage sector, and delivering public benefit through engagement and advocacy. Icon's mission is to represent and support the practice and profession of conservation by promoting the public value of caring for cultural heritage and upholding high standards and ethics in conservation practice.

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The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) was founded in 1916 as the professional body for all chartered architects in Scotland and is the foremost Institute in the country dealing with architecture and the built environment.

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Creating spaces for inspiring conversations

RIAS Strategy 2019-2024

There has never been a more vital time for the RIAS and its members to be active in Scotland's conversation about architecture and the built environment.

RIAS has a unique role to play by applying the creativity and experience of its members across Scotland to help individuals, communities and businesses to develop a higher quality, more sustainable built environment that will stand the test of time.

This new 5-year strategy "Creating space for inspiring conversations" seeks to open up and widen dialogue. It has been shaped by our members, all of whom are active in communities across Scotland. They are effective collaborators; and share a passion for buildings and places that can bring important economic, social, environmental and cultural benefits.

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The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland

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There has never been a more vital time for the RIAS and its members to be active in Scotland's conversation about architecture and the built environment. RIAS has a unique role to play by applying the creativity and experience of its members across Scotland to help individuals, communities and businesses to develop a higher quality, more sustainable built environment that will stand the test of time.

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Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS) is an umbrella body for organisations working in the built environment in Scotland. Drawing on extensive expertise in a membership-led forum, BEFS informs, debates and advocates on the strategic issues, opportunities and challenges facing Scotland’s historic and contemporary built environment.

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Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS) is an umbrella body for organisations working in the built environment in Scotland. Drawing on extensive expertise in a membership-led forum, BEFS informs, debates and advocates on the strategic issues, opportunities and challenges facing Scotland's historic and contemporary built environment.

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Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS) is an umbrella body for organisations working in the built environment in Scotland. Drawing on extensive expertise in a membership-led forum, BEFS informs, debates and advocates on the strategic issues, opportunities and challenges facing Scotland's historic and contemporary built environment.

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Designing Buildings is an industry-wide, cross-discipline forum for finding and sharing knowledge about the planning, design, construction and operation of built assets. It includes includes 6 microsites about specialist subjects.

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Designing Buildings is the construction wiki. The only industry-wide, cross-discipline forum for finding and sharing knowledge about the planning, design, construction and operation of built assets.

Designing Buildings is a free, open access site. Anyone can create articles about subjects they know and anyone can find articles about subjects they don't.

It is supported by CIOB, BSRIA, IHBC, CIAT, ECA and APM.

Write an article

You can write about any subject related to the construction industry, including research, publications, organisations, theories, news, products and practices. All we ask is that articles are factual (not adverts) and are encyclopaedic in style (not blog posts).

Sharing your knowledge is great for the industry, and it is also a great for you. You can add your profile to articles you write, so when people read about your subject they also find out about you.

To create an article:

Want to keep up to date about what's new on the site and what's new in the industry?

Designing Buildings includes 6 microsites - mini wikis about specialist subjects. Created with our partners, they provide easy access to curated knowledge about particular aspects of the built environment:

We can create a microsite for you. It is a fast, low cost, low risk way to get a branded website that allows you to curate knowledge about your specialist subject.

Firefox add-on

Try Designing Buildings Wiki Anywhere to look up any industry term direct from any website when you are using the Firefox browser.

Just highlight what you want to find out about on any website and a box will pop up telling you all about it.

More than 20,000 industry terms have been explained. If an explanation of the term you are looking for does not exist you will be asked if you want to create it.

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Home - Designing Buildings - Share your construction industry knowledge.

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Labour Market Information
To guide your students into careers into construction, you need to know qualifications, salaries and opportunities. So here they are!

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Do you need to study at university for your career

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Do you need to study at university for your career

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This UCAS site has been designed to link students and their parents to important information about higher education and the UCAS application process.

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If you are looking to study a degree at uni, college or a conservatoire find all the information you need here about the application process & choosing your course.

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Wide selection of videos for teachers and employers to help them engage with students about the Built Environment.

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We put our big steel-toed boots into education. Engagement in the construction industry starts with schools. We connect students with employers in construction to inspire and motivate the next generation of construction professionals. Change construction industry perceptions with us. Engage the next generation. If young people aren’t inspired, the construction industry will be in crisis. Inspire them. Learn, see, feel and engage. We make construction relevant to school children with our unique approach to recruiting school. We want to be the engine for change that will transform the construction industry. Get your hands dirty and get into schools. We’re building the future of construction. Are you in?

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Building for everyone: # Building The Transition

From 11–15 September 2023, we’re calling on the global building and construction sector to accelerate the transition to secure an energy efficient, regenerative and just future for all.

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This World Green Building Week 2023 we're #BuildingTheTransition

From 11-15 September 2023, we're calling on the global building and construction sector to accelerate the transition to secure an energy efficient, regenerative and just future for all.

Led by a network of over 75 national Green Building Councils (GBCs) and their 46,000 members, the week-long campaign will show how through systems change thinking, and leveraging local solutions, we can transition to sustainable built environments.

Throughout the week, WorldGBC's network will host events across the world and share examples of #BuildingTheTransition across three areas: the energy transition, regenerative transition and just transition.

This year's campaign will also lead into the UN's 2023 SDG Summit (18-19 September) and therefore pinpoint 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are essential to catalyse a sustainable built environment.

Why is #BuildingTheTransition important?

In 2023, against the backdrop of the world's first Global Stocktake, global attention is shifting to the solutions that must be scaled to tackle the tipping point in climate change, humanitarian challenges and economic uncertainties.

There is no question that the world must undergo a transition to ensure our survival on this planet. The transition required to regenerate and repair our planet will see systemic transformation across all sectors.

As the largest contributing sector to energy-related carbon emissions (37% globally), the built environment must be a key agent of change in the transition to a decarbonised, sustainable and resilient society.

In the run up to COP28 in Dubai, UAE, and as the UNFCCC works to bring transitions forward on the climate agenda, the green building network has an opportunity to spotlight how built environments are a key part of the transition to a sustainable future.

The three transitions essential to accelerate a sustainable built environment

The energy transition is about more than switching to renewable energy. We're talking about a complete systemic change - accelerating the uptake of built environments that are all-electric, reducing energy demand, storing and sharing clean energy, and producing more energy than they use. It's investing in clean technologies and driving economies of scale. And it's deep retrofitting existing buildings to be exceptionally energy efficient.

How do we advance regenerative principles in the built environment from niche to normal? Our planet's resources give us life, but they are not infinite. Humans and the built environment must exist together within a cycle of natural systems. That means not just protecting biodiversity but prioritising its restoration, embracing nature-based solutions, and creating a thriving circular economy across the entire building value chain.

We cannot achieve climate justice without social justice. The people who have contributed the least to environmental degradation are suffering the biggest consequences. Equality is not the same as equity. Advancing a just transition in the built environment means a committed solidarity to protect human rights - from financial flows, to supply chains, to geopolitics - and provide opportunities for skills to thrive.

Join us at World Green Building Week from 11-15 September 2023, contact your national Green Building Council to find out about local events and more, and join the social media campaign on , #BuildingTheTransition and #WGBW23.

If you are hosting an event during #WGBW23, please share your event details here and we'll upload it to our interactive map.

Contact us at office@worldgbc.org to find out more.

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This World Green Building Week 2023 we're #BuildingTheTransition. Join us this #WGBW23 from 11-15 September.

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Borders Doors Open Days - 1st & 2nd September 

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Borders Doors Open Days - 1st & 2nd September 

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Find a building (doorsopendays.org.uk)

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There are lots of buildings and tours being offered in the region, from the new all age Campus School in Jedburgh, churches and town tours, to seeing the 4000 items in the

Scottish Brick Collection

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Inspire a new generation – in just one hour you can share your construction career story with students near you. Think Construction is a resource pack for CIOB members working to encourage young people (14-19) to consider the construction sector as a first-choice, career destination.

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Inspire a new generation - in just one hour you can share your construction career story with students near you. Think Construction is a resource pack for CIOB members working to encourage young people (14-19) to consider the construction sector as a first-choice, career destination.

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Inspire a new generation - in just one hour you can share your construction career story with students near you. Think Construction is a resource pack for CIOB members working to encourage young people (14-19) to consider the construction sector as a first-choice, career destination.

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Abbotsford - a fantastic resource for learners of all ages!

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Abbotsford - a fantastic resource for learners of all ages!

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A range of programmes for schools, colleges and universities and discover how students of all ages and abilities can unlock the mysteries and secrets of Abbotsford for themselves with one of our cross-curricular session

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Abbotsford - The Home of Sir Walter Scott

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Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott. A breathtaking place to visit located on the banks of the River Tweed in the glorious Scottish Borders.

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The CITB is the industry training board  for the construction sector in England, Scotland, and Wales. It’s our job to help the construction industry attract talent and to support skills development, to build a better Britain

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The CIOB is the most influential professional body for construction management and leadership, with around 50,000 members in more than 100 countries

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Our members work worldwide in the development, conservation, and improvement of the built environment. We accredit university degrees, educational courses, and training. Our professional and vocational qualifications are a mark of the highest levels of competence and professionalism, providing assurance to clients and other professionals procuring built assets.

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We are the Chartered Institute of Building, and we stand for the science, ethics and practice of built environments across the world. Everything we do is to improve the quality of life for those using and creating the built environment.

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Laura Noone from EDF Renewables talks about her career as an Area Manager of two EDF wind farms

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What’s it like to work in renewable energy industry?

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What’s it like to work in renewable energy industry?

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What’s it like to work in renewable energy industry?

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Laura Noone from EDF Renewables talks about her career as an Area Manager of two E

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Fuel Change | Unleashing the Next Generation

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Fuel Change | Unleashing the Next Generation

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Fuel Change has runs national and regional challenges, with backing from the Scottish government,  to solve their decarbonisation challenges we unleash the underestimated skills and talent of Scotland’s future workforce.

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My Climate Path

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My Climate Path provides a wide range of opportunities for young people to demonstrate the legacy that COP26 will bring them and their future careers in green and circular roles across all industries.

Through a range of initiatives in the classroom, the community and the workplace, My Climate Path offers a breadth of activities to inspire young people on the roles and skills required for the jobs of the future that will drive sustainable economic growth in a green economy.

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Opportunities for young people, education and communities - My Climate Path

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My Climate Path provides a wide range of opportunities for young people to demonstrate the legacy that COP26 will bring them and their future careers in green and circular roles across all industries.

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Meet two people working in the energy sector 

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Meet two people working in the energy sector 

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My World of Work Live: Meet the Expert - Energy - Roy and Emma from OGTC

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My World of Work Live: Meet the Expert - Energy - Roy and Emma from OGTC

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Talks, conferences, CPD sessions and activities from the RIAS Chapters and affiliate organisations about climate change, the critical role of Architects and the built environment.

RIAS Inspiring Futures - RIAS Inspiring Futures

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What it's like to be an EDF Apprentice studying at the National College for Nuclear in Somerset

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My World of Work Live: Meet the Expert - Renewables - Iain Gulland from Zero Waste Scotland

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SBCF  - What Training Courses are available

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SBCF  - What Training Courses are available

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This new leaflet sets out the currently available local, regional and national courses for trades and professionals to upskill and provides a range of routes for new entrants to the construction sector in the Fast Track section

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What skills do you need to be an interior designer 

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What skills do you need to be an interior designer 

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Watch Anna talk about being a designer on My World of Work

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RTPI | Meet a Planner
Teachers can contact ambassadors@rtpi.org.uk to arrange for a classroom visit or careers talk from other planners.

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What are many different options  if you want to train as an architect.
Pathways to qualify as an architect

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DYW Scotland - Resources and career insights out there related to the Built Environment and Construction Industry

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DYW Scotland - Resources and career insights out there related to the Built Environment and Construction Industry

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There are so many amazing resources and career insights out there related to the Built Environment and Construction Industry that it can be overwhelming.

On this page, we have tried to signpost to our key partners to make it as easy as possible for you to get the advice and guidance you need when considering your next steps. Whether they be school subject choices, modes of study, training, or employment, you will find the information to support you below.

Remember you can use the toolkit to work
​through the resources on these pages.
​

​Download the full Career Profiles Pack and supporting activities here.
​

further support

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Construction Resources and Fringe events

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There are so many amazing resources and career insights out there related to the Built Environment and Construction Industry that it can be overwhelming. On this page, we have tried to signpost to our key partners to make it as easy as possible for you to get the advice and guidance you need when considering your next steps.

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Women In Construction (Why More Women Are Joining?) | Go Construct
Women working in construction and engineering is on the increase.

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Women working in construction and engineering is on the increase. 37% of new entrants into the construction industry that came from higher education are women.

Are there many women in construction?

Yes, but maybe not as many as there could be.

Women make up around  14% of construction industry professionals and this number is only set to rise with more and more women in construction and engineering jobs . Misconceptions about gender-specific roles are gradually diminishing with a growing number of women choosing a career in construction and engineering.

Do female construction workers face prejudice?

It is a  common misconception  about the construction industry that it is full of old-fashioned attitudes. There is still some work to do, but there are thousands of exceptionally talented female construction workers who are changing how women in construction are perceived.

With so many  rewards and benefits of working in the industry, there's plenty of room for career progression and skill development, so it's an industry well worth looking into.

Find out what it's really like to be a female construction worker

Now - more than ever - is a great time to get into construction and engineering.

There are so many different construction jobs for women, so build your skills and a career path that could take you to the very top!

Check out our videos, blog posts and case studies below or discover some of our  real-life stories on Instagram  from women in construction and engineering. You can also read stories from apprentices via Talentview.

More men work in the construction industry than women, and some old-fashioned ideas still prevail, but attitudes are changing. Here are some common misconceptions about the construction industry.

Making connections

There are several organisations that specialise in connecting women in construction, which can be a useful step in reaching future employers:

How can I get into the industry?

There are many ways into construction, whether you're leaving school or established in your career. You could:

Suzannah Nichol MBE

Chief Executive at Build UK

Suzannah wanted to get involved in construction ever since she undertook a day's work experience. She went on to become a site engineer before making the leap to health and safety, becoming director of health and safety at the NSCC in 2002. She was awarded an MBE in 2005 for service to the construction industry. Suzannah is now Chief Executive at Build UK.

She credits the construction industry itself with her success: "If you show both enthusiasm and interest, colleagues at all levels are quick to share their expertise and help you progress."

Construction is an industry that goes out of its way to help you achieve your potential

Web design by S8080 Scroll to top

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Women In Construction (Why More Women Are Joining?)

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More and more women are looking for a rewarding, challenging career and are finding one in construction. Find out more.

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women_career_profiles_pack.pdf (dyw.scot)

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PowerWise: Teaching the dangers of electricity

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PowerWise: Teaching the dangers of electricity

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PowerWise: Teaching the dangers of electricity - PowerWise

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Welcome to PowerWise. Our aim is to help young people to stay safe, be responsible and spark their interest in the future of electricity. We hope that by the time they've worked through PowerWise, what they don't know about staying safe, generation and efficiency could be written on an electron!

Through a combination of interactive activities, animations, creative missions and inspiring lesson ideas, children and young adults will be drawn into today's and tomorrow's world of electricity.

Be safe, be PowerWise.

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PowerWise is a curriculum-linked teaching resource to inform young people about the dangers of electricity with free, interactive resources.

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10 Best Construction Simulator Games - LetsBuild

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What are the top construction simulator games?

1. Construction Simulator Pro 2017

2. SimCity BuildIt

3. Megapolis

4. Bridge Construction Simulator

5. Heavy Excavator Simulator

6. City Builder 17 Federal Prison

7. Village City - Island Sim Farm

8. Skyscraper Construction Sim 3D

9. Space City Construction Sim 3D

10. Big Machines Simulator 3D

Bringing construction to everyone

Have you ever felt the need to explain to others what construction is all about? Or simply to see first-hand how tough working on a construction site actually is? Well, now you can! Construction simulator games can be the perfect way to achieve it. You have the opportunity to experience a construction project from the beginning to its completion with no physical struggle.

With a quick search online, you can find a number of different games that allow you to get a good overview of the whole construction process. We made our research and we present to you some of the best construction simulator games.

However, before we dive into our list it's really interesting to focus a bit on how construction simulator games could have a positive impact on our industry.

How Construction Simulator Games Could Help The Industry

Construction is an industry that traditionally faces problems in attracting younger people. There's a strong need for finding new ways in order to captivate the attention of the people who, in one way or another, could be the future of this industry. Simulator games can offer valuable help toward that direction.

It's no secret that video games have achieved remarkable progress since their first appearance in the early 70's. At the moment, they have established a strong presence in our everyday lives and especially in young people's lives. Keeping that in mind, it becomes clear that simulator games could have the following benefits for construction:

Bring young people in the industry

Even today, construction is many times treated as an industry that is solely addressed to old-timers. Thanks to the latest technological progress, this has started to change. Simulator games can be one more reason for younger individuals to start shifting their attention to construction. So if you feel that you had problems with explaining to your child how things are on a construction site now you can easily do it. On top of that, the more the kids get familiar with construction from an early age the higher the probability that they will develop an interest in the industry on a later stage of their life.

Make construction part of the everyday popular culture

As a continuation of the previous point, construction simulator games could be the easiest way for the industry to communicate its struggles and excitements to a wider audience. This could again be tremendously helpful in the effort for enhancing the industry's profile. Such a shift could eventually lead to the attraction of younger and more skillful workforce.

Help in finding solutions to real-world problems

Another benefit of construction simulator games could be connected with some real world problems that the industry is currently facing on a daily basis. More specifically, a more scientific approach to construction simulator games could allow in the future for the prediction of potential risks or the optimization of several construction project management processes.

Top Construction Simulator Games

By now, it's evident that simulator games have a lot to offer if they are used smartly. Let's take a look at some of the best construction simulator games that are available out there at the moment:

Probably one of the best games out there in describing the construction process from the very beginning to the end. You get the chance to operate a number of different vehicles (eg. cranes, bulldozers, etc.).

Furthermore, you have the opportunity to build a name for yourself in the industry, starting from a contractor and moving further up in the hierarchy. Have a look at the video below and start building your empire in the construction industry:

Be the mayor of the famous SimCity and build step by step the dream city of tomorrow. As a mayor of the SimCity, you are responsible for countless tasks from building the first residencies to putting together a solid sewage and waste management system. Every single detail should be considered for your citizens to remain happy!

A similar game to SimCity BuildIt is Megapolis. It allows you to create the city of your dreams and offers you the ability to design and build a vast number of magnificent infrastructures, such as airports and atomic power plants! A great game for anyone who wants to get a first-hand experience on the challenges of building a modern and fully functional city.

Next on our list, a game with a quite self-explanatory title. Make good use of your engineering skills and try to build strong and safe bridges. There are no time restrictions in this game. Your point of focus should be the creation of structures that can hold the weight of heavy vehicles such as school busses and trucks.

5. Heavy Excavator Simulator

See how it feels to drive a heavy excavator around a construction site. The fact that real crane physics are incorporated in the game makes the whole experience much more realistic. Surely an excellent choice for those who find heavy vehicles fascinating.

6. City Builder 17 Federal Prison

Build a federal prison of high security. That's quite a task and you are the one that has to carry it through! Starting with some simple excavating tasks and moving on to more complicated assignments, you reach step by step to your ultimate goal of creating the safest federal prison. You are responsible for different aspects of the construction process. Some of them are delivering the materials and driving heavy vehicles around the construction site.

Village City is an excellent match for anyone who would like to experiment with putting together a city almost from scratch. In this game, you have the opportunity to build better houses for your citizens and create new infrastructures. On top of that, the way you will choose to design your city will also affect the wellbeing of your people (eg. more job-openings).

If you are a fan of skyscrapers, this game is for you! The wide variety of vehicles which you can drive during the construction process in combination with the 3D graphics makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.

9. Space City Construction Sim 3D

This game can offer you an out of earth experience. You are operating on the moon and your objective is to build a lunar base where the astronauts will be hosted. You can handle robot builders and step by step explore a unique manufacturing experience. Just be careful of the aliens!

A perfect choice for anyone who is into heavy machinery. Take part in big construction projects and drive a big number of different vehicles, from cranes to Earthmovers! Again, the 3D graphics are truly adding up to the general experience and makes the game very realistic.

Conclusion

Construction simulator games can be extremely fun and they can pave a new path for our industry if used smartly. We hope that you will enjoy our list and we are looking forward to reading your suggestions in the comments below.

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Check out our long list with some of the best construction simulator games and gain knowledge about our industry in a fun way!|Check out our long list with some of the best construction simulator games and gain knowledge about our industry in a fun way!

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Build Your Futures

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Educators and parents/carers can select to work through all of the resources in the toolkit, insert them into lessons or support their young people to learn at home about the industry, in bite-sized chunks.

In collaboration with our partners within the Construction Industry, DYW have created 'Build Your Future', exploring careers within the Built Environment.

The Build Your Future programme is split into five different themes.  This should make it easier to digest, allow educators to utilise the resources in relevant subjects, or for young people and parents/carers to follow at home. With the focus being on the people that underpin the industry, young people can learn about how the subjects they are studying relate to the world of work and their future skills development.

We have filmed five conversations with a variety of our industry partners, including apprentices, college students and professionals, amongst them, some very successful women, to provide a broad understanding of the sector, the opportunities within it, entry pathways and real insight of what it is like to work in this exciting industry. Discussion starters and activities to use with these films can be found in the Build Your Future Toolkit.

To further support the programme we have sourced industry and career insight from multiple partners, all of which can be linked to from within this document.

Educators and parents/carers can choose to work through all of the resources in this pack, insert them into lessons, or support their young people to learn about the industry in bite-sized chunks.​

Within the 'Toolkit' above and the 'Resources' page of Build Your Future, you can find guidance for using the exclusive films and Career Profiles Pack created for Build Your Future as well as further links to explore, and suggested complimentary activities and resources.
​
We have also included guidance for educators on how this suite of resources can be used locally within schools to support a programme of fringe activities and events to provide young people, considering a career in Construction, with a more meaningful and interactive way of using these resources and engaging with your local industry partners.

WHAT DO PARENTS/carers SAY?

The resources within these pages are designed to be used by educators, young people and their parents/carers. They are useful when thinking about career options and choices, or planning the next steps of a young person's career pathway post-school.

For parents/carers supporting young people to consider a career in an industry that is unfamiliar, this may be a daunting task. Watch the film opposite from Go Construct to find out what some parents/carers think about their own young people's roles within the built environment.

“Young people are still facing big choices about which subjects they want to take next year, they are still deciding what the right next step is when they leave school and which sectors the skills they are building will be best utilised and further developed in and it is more important than ever
​before that we continue to work with business to provide them with insight that will support them to make informed decisions. ‘Build Your Future’ is a suite of resources that provides a structure for educators to engage with, for parents/carers
to dip into with their young people and to highlight the range of pathways available within the Built Environment in Scotland.”

Jayne Hamilton, STEM Development Officer for Stirling Council

© 2020 Developing the Young Workforce​

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Landing page for DYW Campaign for construction pathways

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Exploring careers within the Built Environment

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Big Bang at School

Does your school need some Big Bang magic? Host an inspiring STEM day filled with amazing science and engineering activities, workshops and project work. Could your students be future app designers, athletes, astronauts or artists? Help them get creative and find their flair for STEM.

The Big Bang at School Blueprint allows you to create a fantastic programme just right for your class and start an extraordinary journey for your students.
Applications for Big Bang at School Blueprint 2023/24 are now open. Apply to take part.
Schools can apply for a bursary of £500 to support them to host a Big Bang at School Blueprint. Apply before 29 November 2023.
Check if you're eligible and apply for a bursary

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Does your school need some Big Bang at School magic? Host an inspiring STEM day filled with amazing new activities.

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Construction Manager is an educational game from CSIC aimed at increasing awareness of careers in the Construction Industry, engaging learners to provide them with the opportunity to apply new knowledge and skills, whilst receiving real-time feedback.

The game is available to download on Windows, iOS and Android devices.

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Architecture & Design Scotland: Making Better Places

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At Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS), we believe that design has a unique and vital role to play in transforming places and changing lives. We are here to make sure it plays that role to the full.

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Empowering students as active citizens of the built environment

Try our on-demand Virtual Work Experience

Get Started

Empowering apprentices to challenge industry aspirations and beliefs

Visit our dedicated site for apprentices and apprenticeships

Get Started

Empowering employers to change perceptions of the industry

Join our social network, connecting educators and employers directly

Get Started

Welcome to Built Environment Skills in Schools

The built environment matters. It has consequences. The things we build affect individuals, communities and environments for decades. Solving the skills shortage in construction and improving the built environment for all our futures are two sides of the same coin.

And Built Environment Skills in Schools exists to get employers into schools, help to educate teachers, and ultimately inspire a new generation of bright minds to become the future of the construction sector.

This site is dedicated to teachers and students across the UK. Here you will find lesson plans, videos, student opportunities, resources, podcasts, job profiles, courses and events all focused on empowering students as active citizens of the built environment through the construction industry.

Built Environment Skills in Schools (BESS) also exists to support construction employer and apprentices to deliver sustainable, significant change across the industry. You can find links to those dedicated sites below.

BESS Newsletter

Sign up here for the BESS newsletter. You know you wanna!

Empowering students as active citizens of the built environment

Lesson plans and classroom activities

Job profiles and labour market information

Careers events and virtual conferences

EMPLOYERS

Empowering employers to change perceptions of the industry

CPD courses, videos and free resources

School opportunity notifications

On-demand virtual work experience

APPRENTICES

Empowering apprentices to challenge industry aspirations and beliefs

Vacancies and opportunities for apprentices

20% Off-the-Job coaching

Co-curricula apprentice award

This is our founder, Kathryn Lennon-Johnson, speaking about her passion for the built environment at 2017’s TEDxBrum

Our Latest Publications

Clcik here to download the brochure from a google drive (it’s a big file)

Click to download this document from a google drive

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Built Environment Skills in Schools - Build the Things that Build Better Things

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Built Environment Skills in Schools (BESS) also exists to support construction employer and apprentices to deliver sustainable, significant change across the industry. You can find links to those dedicated sites below.

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This is a US-based platform to explore roles across all sectors that are focused on climate change.

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Explore climate solutions and discover climate careers. Find your role in the climate fight!