Vadivelu Kandampalayam: NHBC's Apprenticeship Scheme

After a career in fashion and textiles Vadivelu, also known as Vijay, made the move into the construction industry by becoming a Trainee Assistant Site Manager with Cameron Homes and completing his Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor (CSS) apprenticeship with NHBC.

Background:

Born in India, Vijay moved to Scotland to study for his degree in fashion and textiles. He lived there for 10 years and began working in fashion and retail but eventually he decided to pursue a career in a very different industry he’d always been interested in: construction.

Getting started in construction:

Vijay knew he wanted to change career and began working as a labourer which only cemented his ambitions to progress in this industry. He then became a Trainee Assistant Site Manager and, after a suggestion from his Contracts Manager at Cameron Homes, started the Site Supervisor apprenticeship.

Vijay said ‘I’m glad I’ve done this apprenticeship as although I had understood a lot from being on site this has given me the chance to learn even more and gain technical knowledge in a structured way. It’s been a great way of formalising my knowledge and gaining a qualification as well.’

Levelling up skills:

The CSS apprenticeship offers learners the chance to broaden their knowledge and develop a range of skills including an understanding of construction, communication and teamwork. Apprentices also learn how to manage staff and subcontractors, supervise every aspect of the site build, and make sure homes are ready for customers to move into.

Vijay said ‘I got a lot out of the health and safety and construction technology modules in particular as these reinforced the basics and the way to do things properly. Now I feel more confident and able to push for the best methods to be used, or challenge if something looks incorrect, so the homes we build can be as good as possible.’

Looking ahead:

Vijay has now completed his apprenticeship and looks forward to building his career in the construction industry. His next step will be to move into a full Assistant Site Manager role. After that he can work to advance on his career path to Site Manager, and then potentially on to a Contracts Manager role.

Jo Mann, People Advisor at Cameron Homes said ‘Everyone is so pleased for Vijay, the apprenticeship with NHBC is a great way to learn but it takes a lot of hard work too so it’s a real achievement. It’s been wonderful to be able to give colleagues like Vijay who want to develop the chance to gain a qualification that will open up opportunities and lead to a rewarding career in the house-building industry.’

NHBC is proud to offer apprenticeships that support the development of individuals and help house builders to start to address the skills gap at such a crucial time for the construction industry.