What does the course cover?
Our Groundworks Skills Bootcamp provides employed / unemployed individuals with the technical skills, safety certifications, and behavioural readiness to secure progression within employment in civil engineering and groundworks or securing job roles in the construction sector. The programmes are delivered face to face either on site or in off-site locations.
The curriculum covers essential site skills, manual handling, CAT scanning, RAMS, drainage, concrete work, and environmental safety, alongside critical behavioural development: punctuality, communication, teamwork, and employer expectations. Learners will also undertake mandatory plant training in Forward Tipping Dumper or Ride on Roller or Plant Marshalling (NPORS).
Assessment for unemployed residents is continuous and practical, including daily skill checks, scenario tasks, and tutor observation.
Learners without Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) accreditation will be supported to gain the CSCS "Labourer" accreditation, where appropriate. Employed learners, operating in sector, will undergo competence assessment.
Entry requirements and who is it suitable for
You must be at least 19 years old and live or work in Central Bedfordshire or Bedford Borough.
How is it completed?
The programme is completed through a structured, part-time learning journey delivered over up to 16 weeks, with the pace tailored to each learners availability and starting point.
Delivery is primarily during daytime hours to suit adult learners, with evening and weekend sessions available where needed. This flexible approach supports those who are working, undertaking work trials, or managing caring responsibilities.
To successfully complete the course, learners are expected to attend the required guided learning hours, complete all modules, and demonstrate competence in practical and vocational activities. They will also achieve any embedded qualifications or certificates, complete employability preparation such as CV writing and interview skills, and take part in progression planning towards employment or further training.
Progress is reviewed regularly through tutor assessment, practical observation, and one-to-one support sessions. Where needed, learners can extend their participation within the 16-week period to fully achieve the required outcomes.
The programme concludes with a formal exit review to confirm achievements and next steps, whether that is employment, a traineeship, an apprenticeship, or further vocational training. This structured yet flexible approach ensures learners leave with the skills, confidence, and readiness to progress.
How long does it take to complete?
Up to 16 weeks
What can I progress onto?
On completion of the programme, learners are supported to progress into further vocational training, apprenticeships, or employment aligned with their career goals and local labour market needs. Typical next steps include NVQs in Plant Operations or Occupational Work Supervision, short construction courses such as Health & Safety and SSSTS, Level 2 and 3 construction diplomas, and employer-led training linked to live vacancies. Progression planning, guidance, and personalised next-step mapping ensure learners leave with a clear route into sustained work or further learning in the construction sector.
When can I start?
This programme has no fixed start dates, with the last enrolments for employed candidates taking place in December 2026 and for unemployed learners by the end of January 2027. Get in touch for more information.
How to apply
For more information or to enrol, please click on the enquiry button at the top right of this page.
Cost
Free subject to eligibility