The new National Progression Award (NPA) - Construction Skills (CECA) will focus on practical Civil Engineering operative training and will be based at FVC’s Falkirk Campus’s new external training facility and will also make use of the new Skills Transition Centre facilities and equipment.

The course aims to play its part in addressing the skills gap in the civil engineering sector. The CECA Scotland Academy has helped to develop the course in line with Civil Engineering industry partners to provide practical, hands-on training, with the aim of developing the next generation of skilled operatives and professionals.

Stuart Taylor, curriculum manager in the Department of STEM and Construction, said: “The construction and civil engineering industries play a vital role in developing and maintaining Scotland’s infrastructure. This course will help you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to begin a career in the sector or progress to further study.

“Students will gain an understanding of industry practices, health and safety requirements and the practical skills required within construction and civil engineering environments.

“The programme has been designed in partnership with industry and introduces students to a range of construction operations, surveying techniques, civil engineering principles and health and safety practices used across the sector. It is suitable for individuals interested in progressing to further study, Modern Apprenticeships or employment within construction and civil engineering.

“Successful completion of the programme will provide a strong foundation for progression into a range of construction-related disciplines including civil engineering, surveying, construction management and infrastructure operations.”

Laura Fraser, FVC’s skills transition centre project manager, said: “This partnership with the CECA Scotland Academy is an excellent example of the Skills Transition Centre responding directly to the needs of industry and our local business community. By listening to employers and acting on clear intelligence about current construction and civil engineering skills requirements, we have been able to adapt the project to support real demand and create practical pathways into the sector.

“We are proud that the Skills Transition Centre can play a role in strengthening the future talent pipeline for construction and civil engineering, and we are excited to welcome learners as this important programme gets underway.”

David Macdonald, regional director of CECA Scotland Academy, said: “We are delighted to welcome Forth Valley College to the CECA Scotland Academy. This is another important step in our commitment to addressing the skills shortage facing Scotland’s civil engineering industry and, most importantly, creating genuine pathways into rewarding careers.

“The partnership brings together education and industry to give learners practical, relevant skills and a clear route into employment. By working directly with employers, we can ensure that the training reflects the needs of our industry today while helping to develop the skilled workforce we will need tomorrow.

“Forth Valley College is a fantastic addition to the Academy, and we look forward to working together to inspire the next generation of civil engineering talent across the Forth Valley and beyond and allowing our members to recruit the next generation workforce.”