For those fresh to the working world, wanting a career change, or simply looking for a job in trade, Safeway Scaffolding is here to help you on your journey to become a scaffolder. Despite the job having its complexities, there is always somewhere to start, and we encourage anyone from any background to consider this career route. So if you are asking yourself ‘how do I become a scaffolder?’, then continue reading our blog.
Consider Why You Would Like To Start
There are many reasons as to why you should consider joining the scaffolding community. It is vital you choose the job that is right for you, considering whether this meets your pay requirements, your ability to grow as an individual, and how busy you could be with this career route.
1. Strong Job Demand
Construction projects are always happening: buildings, bridges, maintenance, events, and more. Scaffolding is essential for most of them. That means consistent demand for skilled scaffolders, especially in growing cities.
2. Good Pay Without Student Debt
Scaffolding roles can start with competitive wages, and with experience, the pay gets even better. Unlike many careers that require years of expensive university courses, scaffolding usually offers on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
3. Skill Development & Growth
Our scaffolders develop technical skills, safety expertise, and even leadership qualities. There’s room to move into supervisory roles, site management, or even starting your own scaffolding business. At Safeway Scaffolding, we look forward to seeing the development of our team.
4. Work That’s Active & Hands-On
For people who don’t want to sit at a desk all day, scaffolding is physical and practical. It suits those who like being outside, working with their hands, and seeing real results from their efforts.
5. Travel & Variety
Scaffolders often work in different locations, and no two projects are the same. There’s also the opportunity to travel for jobs, especially for large industrial projects.
Do You Need Any Experience?
Like any application, it is difficult to know how much experience is appreciated or if you need any at all. To begin with, you are not expected to have any qualifications and simply just: basic fitness, comfortableness with heights, and potentially a health and safety test (easy to book and pass).
What You Work Towards During Your Journey
1. CISRS Labourer Card (or Trainee Card)
- This is often your first step
- You get this by completing a short course (like the CISRS Operative Training Scheme – COTS)
- Employers often help arrange this
2. CISRS Scaffolder Card
- This comes after you’ve got real on-site experience (usually about 6+ months)
- You complete formal training (Part 1, Part 2) and pass an NVQ Level 2 in Access & Rigging
- Most of this is done while working and supported by your employer or apprenticeship provider
3. Advanced Scaffolder Card (Optional)
- For those moving into more complex scaffolding work
- Comes after experience + further training
Choose A Company That Cares
Wondering how to become a scaffolder? Those who become the best trained and most respected are those raised in a positive work environment and ultimately, trained by a company that cares. There is some research you can do prior to applications, such as: looking into case studies, testimonials, the expertise of the company, and more!
With us, you can view our case studies via our home page. We have over 20 years of valuable expertise covering various projects. Our testimonials/ reviews are also very positive, take a look for yourself!
Our 20 years of experience have also meant that we have built up valuable accreditations over the years. Here are some examples: Achilles, CITB, CHAS, ConstructionOnline, and many more.
Contact Us Today For Any Scaffolding Career Advice – Safeway Scaffolding
If you are looking to contact us for career advice, a specific role, or anything else regarding scaffolding needs, get in touch today! Our friendly team is always happy to help where they can.