Industry
The UK construction industry needs 300,000 additional workers by 2027. That figure comes from the CITB — and it's a baseline, not a worst case. Here's what the shortage means, which trades are worst affected, and why this is actually an opportunity for anyone entering the industry right now.
Career Pathways
No degree, no debt, high demand everywhere. Real earnings, three ways to work, and 11 trade pathways. Here's what construction actually looks like in 2026 — and why the timing has never been better.
2 May 2026
6 min read
For Organisations
A 16-year-old who starts their CSCS pathway now has a 10-year head start on the typical adult entrant. Here's what a proper trade pathway programme looks like — and what organisations should look for.
2 May 2026
6 min read
Qualifications
Without a CSCS card you can't get on most UK construction sites. Here's exactly what it is, the full colour system from Green to Black, how to get one, what it costs, and what it unlocks.
2 May 2026
6 min read
Getting Started
A criminal record does not stop you from getting into construction. The CSCS card has no DBS check. Most domestic work has no background screening. Here's the honest picture — what's restricted, what isn't, and what the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act actually means for you.
2 June 2026
6 min read
For Organisations
Construction companies bidding on public contracts now have to demonstrate social value — and it's scored. Employing people from justice-involved backgrounds carries real TOMs value. Here's how the framework works and why it changes the conversation completely.
9 June 2026
7 min read
Qualifications
Earn while you learn, no debt, real site experience from day one. Here's everything you need to know — Level 2 vs Level 3, which trades, what they pay, and how they compare to going to university.
16 June 2026
7 min read
Getting Started
The CSCS Green card costs under £200 and takes weeks to get. From there, labouring puts you inside the industry within a month. Here's the step-by-step route from nothing to a trade career — and what employers actually look for at entry level.
23 June 2026
6 min read