Apprenticeships / Foundation Apprenticeships: With STRUCTURA
Everything you need to know about getting on-site and getting paid to learn.
The Golden Rule for Young People Starting in Construction
"Construction isn't just about moving bricks; it's about problem-solving, precision, and being part of a team that changes our neighbourhoods and towns. The best tool you can bring on day one isn't a hammer—it's a good attitude."
The STRUCTURA Top Tips for Success
✅ The DOs & ❌ The DON'Ts
"Look, we’re glad you’re here and we want you to succeed, but you need to understand that a construction site is a high-stakes environment where your best friend is common sense. As your mentor, I’m here to teach you the craft, but as the 'big bad safety man,' I’m here to make sure you go home with the same number of fingers you arrived with. The 'Do’s' are simple: listen more than you talk, keep your PPE on even when it’s hot, and if you aren’t 100% sure about a task, stop and ask. The 'Don'ts' are non-negotiable: zero 'messing about,' zero shortcuts on the 14ft scaffolds, and absolutely zero ego. We have a laugh on this team, but the moment you stop respecting the site rules is the moment you become a liability. Treat the site with respect, and we’ll give you all the tools and knowledge you need to build a massive career. Cheers, and let's get to work."
The STRUCTURA Team
| DO ✅ | DON'T ❌ |
|---|---|
| Arrive early and ready to go. | Roll in late with a "sorry mate" every day. |
| Wear your PPE (Helmet, Boots, Hi-Vis). | Take your goggles off because they "fog up." |
| Keep it in your bag/locker until break. | Be caught scrolling TikTok on a live floor. |
| See a mess? Sweep it up without being asked. | Wait around with your hands in your pockets. |
| Keep a small notebook of tips you learn. | Assume you know it all after one week. |
🔴 Red (Immediate Dismissal): Drugs/Alcohol on site, fighting, theft or intentional safety breaches.
🟡 Yellow (Warning): Being late, phone use on the floor, forgetting PPE, Smoking or Vaping in unauthorised areas.
🟢 Green (Promotion Path): Asking questions, tidy workspace, helping others.
MANDATORY PPE
ADDITIONAL PPE
The STRUCTURA Way
We Can Help
The STRUCTURA Way: Mental Wellbeing
We don't struggle in silence. We look out for our mates. If you’re feeling burnt out, stressed, or just 'not right,' the door is always open. Speaking up isn't a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of a professional who knows when they need a bit of maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-year apprentice, your mental health is a priority on our sites. We work as a team, we finish as a team, and we make sure everyone gets home safe—in body and in mind.
It's Okay to Not Be Okay
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The Fact: Construction workers are at higher risk for burnout and stress than many other trades.
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The Mentorship: If you’re struggling—whether it’s the early starts, the physical toll, or stuff at home—speak up. We’d rather you take five minutes to clear your head than have your head not in the game while you’re on a ladder.
Construction has a "tough guy" reputation, but it’s a physically and mentally demanding job.
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The Fact: Construction workers are at higher risk for burnout and stress than many other trades.
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The Mentorship: If you’re struggling—whether it’s the early starts, the physical toll, or stuff at home—speak up. We’d rather you take five minutes to clear your head than have your head not in the game while you’re on a ladder.
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The Trades Talk on Boots
"Listen, don’t go cheap on your boots. You’re going to be standing, climbing, and grafting in these for 8 to 10 hours a day. Cheap boots will ruin your back and your knees before you’re 21. Look for the BS EN ISO 20345 S3 tag. And for the love of the trade, wear decent socks. If your feet are blistered and wet, your head won't be in the game, and that's when accidents happen."
FAQ for Parents & Students
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Is it dangerous? Not if you follow the rules. Modern UK sites are some of the safest workplaces in the world.
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How much will I earn? Apprentice rates start at a set minimum £12.50p/h, but once you're qualified, a skilled plasterer or dryliner can earn £200+ per day.
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What if I'm not "academic"? Construction is perfect for kinesthetic learners. If you prefer doing to sitting, you'll thrive.
We Regularly Update This Page, Check Back Soon!
STRUGGLING FOR SITE KIT? THE 'BOOTS FOR YOOTS' INITIATIVE
We know that finding the cash for your first set of compliant PPE and a CSCS test is a massive barrier. You shouldn't be locked out of the industry just because you don't have £250 to get through the gate.
That’s why STRUCTURA launched the Boots for Yoots (B4Y) programme—a zero-profit supply line dedicated to getting brand-new, BS EN ISO 20345 compliant gear onto the feet of the North West's next generation of trades.
HOW TO GET KITTED OUT (THE RULES): To make sure the gear goes exactly where it's needed most, we run a strict, referral-only policy. We do not accept direct requests or DMs from individuals.
If you are putting in the graft but need backing for your kit, here is your next step:
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Speak to your Training Provider: Talk to your college tutor, apprenticeship liaison, or youth programme leader.
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Point them to us: Tell them to visit the [Boots for Yoots Webpage]. There are ways to share below.
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Get Referred: Tell your provider to contact STRUCTURA on your behalf to officially verify your need and request the kit.
You put in the graft. Tell your college to put in the referral. We’ll supply the boots.
