Demolition operative
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Demolition operatives safely dismantle and remove structures such as buildings, bridges, and industrial plant to prepare sites for redevelopment. You will learn to use specialist tools and machinery while following strict health and safety procedures to protect yourself and the public. It can lead to roles as a demolition plant operator, supervisor, or site manager.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Safe methods of demolition for different structure types
How to identify and safely handle hazardous materials such as asbestos
Use and maintenance of demolition tools and plant machinery
Site health, safety, and environmental legislation
Waste segregation, recycling, and responsible material disposal
How to read site plans and risk assessments
Working safely at height and in confined spaces
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare sites by erecting barriers, hoardings, and safety signs
Operate hand tools and powered equipment to strip out structures
Sort and remove waste materials for recycling or disposal
Carry out pre-demolition surveys and spot hazards
Work with supervisors to follow the agreed demolition sequence
Monitor dust, noise, and vibration to protect neighbours
Complete daily safety checks on tools and equipment
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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