Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) has announced the launch of an all-new Property Maintenance Operative apprenticeship, offering students the chance to learn practical construction skills, whilst meeting the growing needs of building owners across the region.
The new apprenticeship covers a wide range of building trades, including bricklaying, carpentry, painting and decorating, plastering, electrical, plumbing, health & safety, principles of construction, safety systems and equipment.
The programme comprises an 18-month practical training period, followed by a 3-month assessment. The course provides first and immediate response to fault finding, whilst maximising quality and ensuring cost effectiveness. The skills learned will ensure prevention of major damage that could result in extensive costs and minimise reactive intervention.
The course is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to progress into various employment roles in the construction and built environment sector, including commercial & facilities management, public sector & engagement, hospitality & leisure, and trade-support & entry-level trade roles. With experience or further training, progression opportunities include multi-skilled maintenance operative, facilities technician, junior maintenance supervisor, or estates operative.
Apprentices will learn the importance of Health and Safety, carry out repairs to the fabric of a building, understand and maintain plumbing and drainage systems, maintain high levels of water hygiene, demonstrate energy, environment, and sustainable practices. The course will also equip students to safely use hand tools to carry out repairs and reactive maintenance.
Delivered through a mixture of work-based training with an approved employer and contact days at College, the course also includes reviews with the apprentice and employer every 8-10 weeks to engage with progress. Once the course has been completed, the apprentice will achieve Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative Apprenticeship and Level 1 Functional Skills in English and Maths.
The qualification will be assessed through practical assessments, multiple choice knowledge test, and professional discussion based on a portfolio of evidence and short research assignment.
Nicky Carter, director of curriculum at HoW College said, “Our new Property Maintenance Operative apprenticeship has been developed in response to employer demand and skills needed across the region. This programme gives apprentices the hands-on experience, knowledge, and confidence to maintain buildings safely, efficiently, and sustainably. It also provides a great foundation for long-term career progression within the construction and built environment industry.”
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