Few people realise that Norfolk is home to the largest construction industry-training centre in the world - the CITB's National Construction College. Situated on some 450 acres in Bircham Newton close to King's Lynn, the college is also widely recognised as one of the world's finest training centres for people already working in or looking to break into a career in the construction industry, including the Access and Scaffolding Industry. The College is officially recognised by the NASC.

"I attended Bircham Newton from 1995-96 and during that time, I learned almost every aspect of scaffolding, except from experience which came in time. Within two years of leaving, I gained all the scaffolding cards, including "Advanced". Almost a year later, I was responsible for squads of two and three men, as a Chargehand. Currently I am working in Dublin for my company Turner Plus Eight Ltd.

I enjoyed my full year at Bircham Newton and enjoyed all of the leisure activities including being Captain of the Football Team and winning the Cup Final. There was also a swimming pool, indoor football pitch and a gym. You make friends with people from all over Great Britain and have a laugh too. It really is a worthwhile thing to do, as long as you have the attitude to stick it out."

Joe Swanson
Chargehand

'I'd always wanted an outdoor job which would help me stay fit and healthy. I enjoy working on site, although it can be hard work. I've had to learn loads of safety guidelines as well. I've also built stages for concerts and have worked with TV crews, which is what I'd like to do more of in the future.'

Frank Murray
Trainee Scaffolder

Frank has just finished his NVQ Level 2 through Scheme A. He was encouraged to try scaffolding by a relative who works in the industry. He also hopes to become a chargehand. "There's always something new to learn. It keeps you fit, the money's good and it gives you the chance to see places normally out of reach."

Kester Ward
Trainee Supervisor

Kester has worked on the Tower of London's White Tower and the Guildhall extension. Ward began as a labourer, passed the basic and advanced courses under the stringent NASC specifications, progressed through the ranks and is now a trainee supervisor. By contrast, Barry Badenoch has gone straight into the industry as a Trainee Scaffolder with an NASC company and has just finished his NVQ Level 2.

"I really enjoy heights, so it didn't take much encouragement for me to become a scaffolder. It's a good job and it pays well. The outward-bound course on the training scheme was excellent - lots of team-working sessions. I learnt so much that most of what I do now comes second nature. I'm also much more confident in my own ability now."

Barry Badenoch,
Trainee Scaffolder

Barry has a year on-site work to complete before he can go offshore and eventually he hopes to become a manager.

Starting your career with an NASC company gives you the best possible advantage. You will have the opportunity to rise quickly through the ranks of the well-ordered career structure. NASC training gives you the chance to work on a wide variety of jobs. They can be local or anywhere in the world and due to the constant demand for high standards of Access and Scaffolding, the work is always extremely well paid. Some school leavers and graduates go straight into management, while others become managers through training. Both career paths provide a unique opportunity ultimately to set up and run your own business.

For further information please contact:

NASC
Carthusian Court
12 Carthusian Street
London
EC1M 6EZ

Tel: 020 7397 8120
Fax: 020 7397 8121

© Copyright 2000 National Access & Scaffolding Confederation All Rights Reserved.

[ Home | Accessibility | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Site Map | Contact Information | Top of Page | Email NASC ]