Steeplejack
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 2 apprenticeship trains steeplejacks to work safely at height on chimneys, church spires, towers, and other tall structures, carrying out inspection, repair, and maintenance work. Apprentices learn specialist rope access and scaffolding techniques alongside masonry, brickwork, and lightning protection skills. It can lead to roles as a Senior Steeplejack, Site Supervisor, or industrial chimney specialist.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Safe working at height using ropes, bosun's chairs, and staging
Inspection techniques for tall structures including chimneys and spires
Brickwork, repointing, and masonry repair at height
Lightning protection system installation and testing
Scaffolding awareness and steeplejack-specific access methods
Health and safety legislation for working at height
Reading inspection reports and understanding repair specifications
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Access tall structures safely using ropes and specialist equipment
Inspect chimneys, spires, and towers for defects
Carry out repointing, capping, and brickwork repairs at height
Install or test lightning protection systems on tall structures
Erect and dismantle steeplejack-specific access equipment
Complete site records and report defects to supervisors
Follow risk assessments and method statements for every job
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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