Level 2 Groundworker Apprenticeship

Course Overview

Course Type:

Apprenticeship

Available at:

CETC

Course Area:

Civil Engineering & Groundworks

Course Duration:

18-21 Months

Available at:

CETC

The Course in Detail

Are you ready to kickstart an exciting career in civil engineering? Our Level 2 Groundworker Apprenticeship is your pathway to developing the essential skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the world of groundworks. From preparing construction sites to coastal protection schemes, creation of reservoirs, creation of sub stations and much more. This apprenticeship equips you with everything you need to build a solid future in the industry with a range of employers.

The Apprenticeship Journey

The programme is designed to give you the perfect blend of classroom learning and on-site experience:

1) Application & Matching

Enquire Online: Submit your enquiry through our website and our team will be in touch to support you in applying
College Interview: Attend a short interview with the college. If successful, you’ll move on to the next stage
Employer Matching Day: Participate in an interview and matching session with potential employers. If you already have an employer, include their details in your application. If not, don’t worry—we’ll try to match you with one as part of the process
If you impress an employer enough to secure a job offer, you will join an 8-week pre-apprenticeship programme, which includes both training at the Civil Engineering Training Centre (CETC) and a work placement

2) 8-Week Pre-Apprenticeship

First 4 Weeks (at CETC):

Learn health & safety protocols
Develop key hand skills
Earn your CSCS card (required for working on construction sites)
Gain a solid foundation in groundwork essentials

Next 4 Weeks (Work Placement):

Join your employer on-site, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned and get a real taste of the job

Complete these 8 weeks successfully, and you’ll progress to the full Level 2 Groundworker Apprenticeship.

3) Level 2 Groundworker Apprenticeship

12-week block at CETC:

Dive deeper into core skills like setting out, concreting, drainage installation, and interpreting design specifications
Learn advanced civil engineering & construction techniques along with teamwork strategies

On-the-job training:

After completing the CETC block, you’ll work full-time with your employer on-site
Return to CETC once a month for additional skills training, portfolio development, and exam preparation

What You’ll Learn

Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll master skills and gain knowledge essential for success in groundworks:

Learn how to work safely and securely within Health & safety legislation
Use and maintain power tools and equipment including compactor plates, portable power tools and laser equipment
Reading and interpreting technical drawings
Setting out equipment and procedures
Locate and excavate to expose buried services using electronic location instruments
Form and reinstate excavations and surfaces
Safe movement and use of plant or machinery
Teamwork, communication, and effective problem-solving

Industry Recognition

By the end of this programme, you’ll not only have the skills to work confidently as a Groundworker but also earn the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) ‘Skilled Worker’ card – a must-have qualification for career advancement in the construction industry.

Take the first step toward a rewarding career. Join us to shape the future-preparing sites where the great projects begin!

Entry Requirements & Progression

What You'll Need

You will need to have relevant employment, and entry is subject to interview and assessment.

GCSE English and maths grade 4/C or above (or Level 2 functional skills) are preferred.

This Could Lead to

Completion of the Groundworker Apprenticeship offers you a wide range of progression opportunities to more senior positions such as Civil Engineering or Surveying Technician, or progression onto a range of Apprenticeship training programmes in trades that include Installation Electrician, Advanced Carpentry & Joinery, or Plumbing & Domestic Heating Technician.

Assessment

Your progress will be continuously monitored and supported by a Professional Trainer.

Depending on the standard, we assess your competence through various methods, such as practical exams, assignments, interviews, project work, presentations or observations and we will also evaluate your portfolio of evidence, which documents your learning and progress throughout your apprenticeship with us.

The apprenticeship end-point assessment is the final evaluation stage of your apprenticeship programme. It's designed to determine whether you have achieved the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to meet the apprenticeship standard and perform the job role independently.

Successful completion of the end-point assessment is required to receive certification.

Availability & Enrolment

College Life & Student Support Services

College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.

Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.