feedback & FAQ's

Feedback

Rio Ferdinand, Ex-England and Manchester United Footballer

“This centre is exactly what local people need as another option for career opportunities.”


SAMANTHA KING, PROJECT MANAGER, 2ND CHANCE

“I just wanted to say an enormous thank you for all your amazing help and support in having our trainees last week! They thoroughly enjoyed it and you looked after them very well...thank you!  I know I briefly saw you on Wednesday but wanted to say how much we appreciate it! 
Thanks so much again, we really rely on the support of amazing employees like yourself!”


Mary-Anne Cooper, Social Sustainability Advisor, Laing O'Rourke

“I wanted to send you an individual email as well to say thanks for yesterday – it went so much better than I thought it would be and our Project Leader as well as the subbies are all made up.  I really couldn’t have done it without you! Please also say thanks to your other colleagues who helped out too – the guys who set up the room and the girls who supported when the crowds were getting too big."


Millie Field, Bromley

“I really enjoyed the pre-employment course at the centre. All of the different construction career pathways really opened my mind and I will now be pursuing a career in the construction industry.”


Mrs A. Sparkes, Assistant Headteacher, Sacred Heart School

"Thank you for attending or sending colleague/s to our Careers Aspiration Afternoon yesterday. The feedback from our Year 10 and 12 pupils has been very positive. For some of the pupils this is the first time they have spoken to an employer; your support in building their confidence and your encouragement is greatly appreciated. We thank you and your companies for the time you give up for the aspirations afternoon, the work experience you have offered and the insight you provide our pupils regarding your career paths and industries during the networking."


Jack Goodman, Delivery Consultant, Potensis

"Just wanted to say thank you for bringing the candidates down yesterday/today. They were all very good and determined people. As I mentioned to them all once they have their CSCS Cards I will be able to get them into employment, this may not be just in Blackfriars but will be all across London."


Ian Reed, Southwark resident

“The centre is more than I could have ever expected.”


Peter Chessman, Lewisham resident

“I started the course with Tideway East looking to get back into construction, I have had some personal problems but the centre has supported me through the program and I am looking forward to my work experience and possible job with Tideway.”


Val Lowman, OBE

“Thank you SO much for the tour of your training centre last Thursday afternoon. As I said several times, everything was fabulous! Well worth the wait.  Thank you for your time.”


David Stone, Southwark resident, Rotherhithe SE16

“Like being on a real building site.”


Evelina Sredovska, Project Team Manager, The Hyde Group

“First of all, I wanted to say thank you for having me today. I am truly amazed with your centre.”


Edward Kelly, Southwark resident, Peckham

“Great teachers and helpful, fun office staff”


Seamus Dyson, Southwark resident

“Love this place and now looks like I will be getting an apprenticeship at Easter with FM Conway.”


Frequently Asked Questions

What courses does SCSC offer?
The Centre offers a wide range of courses such as Pre-Employment Courses, Short Courses in many areas, NVQ Qualifications and Apprenticeship Programmes. For more information check out 'Courses & Services'.

What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are government funded work-based training programmes for people aged 16 and over. They combine on the job training with nationally recognised qualifications and are a great way to build a skilled and motivated workforce.

Is there an age limit to an apprenticeship?
The minimum age is 16 years of age. You are never too old to start an apprenticeship. 

What is an NVQ Qualification?
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are work-based qualifications that give learners the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their competence in the area of work or job role to which the qualification relates. For more information check out 'Courses & Services'.

Why do I need an NVQ Qualification?
Each construction role is linked to a trade specific NVQ and skilled workers card. It is important that all operatives have the correct CSCS card and NVQ qualification. Holding an NVQ qualification and Skilled Workers CSCS card demonstrates that the operative has the right competence, skill and can perform to a high level safely.

How long does an NVQ Qualification take?
A typical NVQ qualification can take between 3-9 months depending on the level and qualification. If you would like more information on a specific qualification, please contact us.

How can I gain a trade specific NVQ Qualification?
If you are interested in gaining an NVQ Qualification, please contact us for more information. One of our trade specific assessors will be able to conduct a skills audit on an individual operative or complete a skills card audit on an organisations workforce to ensure the correct NVQ qualifications are identified.

What is a CSCS card?
CSCS cards provide proof that individuals working on construction sites have the required training and qualifications for the type of work they carry out.

How do I go about getting a CSCS card?
CSCS card applicants need to prove they have the training and qualifications required to carry out their job and apply for the correct card for their occupation.  The requirements can be checked by using the online cardfinder which will also confirm which type of CITB Health, Safety and Environment test needs to be passed.

How long does a pre-employment course run for?
The course runs from Monday to Friday 08:30am to 4:00pm for 3 consecutive weeks. Full attendance on the course is compulsory.

Do I need to be receiving benefits to complete a pre-employment course?
You do not have to be receiving benefits to complete a pre-employment course at the skills centre. However, you must be unemployed and over the age of 16 years old.