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Construction

Earn while you learn with a Carpentry and Joinery, Brickwork, Painting and Decorating, or Civil Engineering Modern Apprenticeship.

The Construction Modern Apprenticeship (MAs) is available in three areas:

NESCol also offers a Civil Engineering Modern Apprenticeship.

These MAs combine paid employment with learning at NESCol. Apprentices gain industry-recognised qualifications while also building practical workplace skills.

6,745

Construction Modern Apprentices started in Scotland in 2025/56¹

Apprenticeship overview

Construction

The Construction MA framework outlines what apprentices need to learn and achieve to complete their apprenticeship.

It includes:

  • One Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) at Level 3
  • Core Skills

Download the Construction MA framework diagram

SCQF levels show the overall level of learning within the MA.

SCQF Level 6

Apprentices develop the skills and experience to work independently and take responsibility for day-to-day tasks.

View the SCQF Levels Interactive Framework

A typical Construction MA lasts four years.

The College learning for this MA is based at Aberdeen Altens or Fraserburgh Campus.

The Sector Skills Council for the Construction MA is Construction Skills. 

Four students smiling at the camera in the Altens painting and decorating workshop.

Civil Engineering

The Civil Engineering MA framework outlines what apprentices need to learn and achieve to complete their apprenticeship.

It includes:

  • One Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) at Level 2
  • Core Skills

Download the Civil Engineering MA framework diagram

SCQF levels show the overall level of learning within the MA.

SCQF Level 5

Apprentices build the essential skills and knowledge needed to start a career and work confidently in their role.

View the SCQF Levels Interactive Framework

A typical Civil Engineering MA lasts two years.

The College learning for this MA is based at Aberdeen Altens or Fraserburgh Campus.

The Sector Skills Council for the Construction MA is Construction Skills. 

Get in touch

For more information on becoming or employing a Modern Apprentice, please contact the MA team.

Telephone: 01346 586110
Email: MATeam@nescol.ac.uk

Find out more about Modern Apprenticeships

Resources

Apprenticeships.Scot

Modern Apprenticeship Guide

¹ Skills Development Scotland (2026)