Recruitment drive will see 100 new assessors taken on across Scotland’s construction colleges

Current construction assessors pictured with key representatives from ESP and CITB at a Taylor Wimpey Site in Cambuslang.

The two-year project, which is targeting experienced tradespeople working in the construction sector, is being driven by ESP and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), in partnership with 24 Scottish colleges, government agencies and private training providers.

The 100 construction assessors will enable the efficient delivery of assessments for apprenticeships north of the Border.

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to help support and deliver the industry’s future workforce by applying their current experience to assess apprentices on site, as well as ensuring qualifications are delivered to a high standard.

Assessors will be recruited across a range of curriculum areas, including carpentry and joinery, brickwork, painting and decorating, interior systems, timber frame erection, stone masonry, wood machining and plastering.

Colleges and training providers will continue to recruit individually, while the assessor vacancies will be promoted via a national campaign.

John Renwick, construction sector manager for ESP, said: “Becoming an assessor can be a rewarding career choice and the opportunity to shape the next generation of talent. It is a key role in the success of the construction sector, helping new entrants to gain their qualifications and become highly skilled in their trade.

“Scottish Apprenticeship Week seemed like the perfect time to launch the project. The importance and value of apprenticeships are recognised throughout the country, and they would not be achievable without the help and support of the assessor role.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced industry professionals to use their skills and knowledge in a new capacity and we would encourage them to find out more about this fantastic job opportunity.”

Ian Hughes, partnerships director, CITB Scotland, said: “The Scottish assessors project is a great example of how we work in partnership with training delivery organisations to ensure that construction has the right people, with the right skills, in the right place.

“The recruitment and upskilling of assessors for specific trades – and in specific regions of Scotland – will have a hugely positive impact on the delivery of a greater number of much-needed, fully trained and qualified apprentices to the Scottish workforce.”

Gordon Nelson, FMB Scotland director, said: “Our members have high standards, which is why it is important that the new assessors have sufficient skills and knowledge to ensure apprenticeship qualifications are delivered to high standards too.”