Demolition operative apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a college coursean apprenticeshipworking towards this roleapplying directly
College
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. You could then apply to a demolition company for a trainee position. Relevant courses include:
- Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills
- Level 2 Diploma in Construction Operations
- T Level for Demolition Operatives
You'll usually need 2 or fewer GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent, for a Level 1 course. You'll need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. For a T Level you'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Apprenticeship
You may be able to start by doing a Level 2 demolition operative apprenticeship.
If you're under 18, you could do an groundworker or construction plant operative Level 2 apprenticeship, then move into demolition training once you reach 18.
You'll usually need some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent.
Work
You may be able to work as a site labourer, plant operator or construction tradesperson and complete on-the-job training in demolition.
Direct Application
You can apply for jobs directly with demolition contractors if you have construction work experience. Some employers may ask for GCSEs in maths, English, and design and technology, or equivalent qualifications.
A Certificate of Competence for Demolition Operatives (CCDO) card is usually required to work on site.
Demolition operative apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- concentration skills
- knowledge of public safety and security
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to work well with your hands
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to be over 18 years of age
Demolition operative apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this job, you could:
- put up guard rails, safety screens and lay dust sheets
- strip out fittings, remove doors and windows and dismantle roofs
- cut metal beams and girders into pieces ready for removal
- operate a crane-mounted magnet to recover metals
- separate reusable materials from waste
- load rubble and debris into mechanical crushers
- prepare sites for explosive demolition
- operate plant machinery to demolish structures
- dispose of hazardous materials, like asbestos, safely
Working environment
You could work on a construction site.
Your working environment may be physically demanding.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression - Demolition operative apprenticeships
With further training, you could specialise in a particular demolition method, for example the use of explosives.
With experience you could become a site supervisor, safety officer or move into contract management.