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Busting the myths about teaching construction in further education
Abhishek Vijay Kadam
Image: Monkey Business Images | Dreamstime.com
Experienced construction professionals are being urged to consider a move into further education, challenging misconceptions about teaching and helping to train the next generation of skilled workers.
Are you at a stage in your construction career where you want to share the experience, skills and knowledge you have built over the years?
Training others in further education (FE) gives you the chance to use your real-world expertise in a meaningful way. It allows you to support new learners and help shape the future workforce that the construction sector urgently needs.
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With government goals to train 60,000 more skilled construction workers by 2029, colleges across the country need experienced people to help tackle skills shortages. They are looking for professionals with hands-on knowledge who can bring authentic insight into workshops and classrooms.
Your experience can inspire the next generation and help them develop the skills the workforce needs today.
FE covers education for learners aged 16 and over, including school leavers, adults changing careers and people returning to learning later in life.
FE offers the opportunity to train others in practical, hands-on settings, from workshops and simulated sites through to classroom-based learning.
You can train others in a wide range of construction subjects, including bricklaying, electrical installation, digital construction, surveying and more. If you have interpreted plans, managed teams, overseen health and safety, or solved unexpected onsite challenges, your expertise can directly support learners preparing for careers in your field.
Common misconceptions about FE careers
Myth 1: You must have years of experience training others before you start
Reality: If you have real industry experience, you already have what it takes to train others in FE. Many FE colleges allow you to start while completing your teacher training on the job. Training is often funded by the employer, so you can earn while you learn.
Myth 2: Training others in FE means leaving site work behind
Reality: There are FE trainers who work part-time alongside their existing roles in industry. With some flexible, part-time opportunities available, you can start training others alongside your current job or personal commitments. This also means you can stay involved in construction while supporting new entrants into the sector.
Myth 3: There’s little variety in what you can train others in
Reality: FE offers the opportunity to train others in a wide range of construction disciplines and technical areas. Trainers can also help influence course content, shaping lessons so they reflect current industry practice. Whatever your background, there is likely a role in FE that matches your skills.
Myth 4: There is limited professional development in FE
Reality: A career in FE offers development pathways, including course leadership, curriculum development and mentoring roles. It also helps you develop transferable skills such as communication, coaching and problem-solving.
Personal experience
Personally, I moved from site management to training others in FE, which allowed me to discover a new sense of purpose in helping shape the future of construction.
I did not set out to become an FE trainer. My career began onsite, managing teams and projects. But moving into FE opened a new way to use my construction experience.
Sharing real examples, whether that’s managing site safety, overseeing installations or solving challenges, helps learners link theory to practice and build confidence.
Supporting people from different backgrounds as they grow is incredibly rewarding. If you are passionate about construction and want to make a real difference, consider training others at your local college.
Training others in FE allows you to pass on your legacy, support the next generation and strengthen the future workforce in your field. It can be a fresh, energising next step in your career that keeps you connected to the industry you know and value.
Find more information about careers in FE and available positions here.
Abhishek Vijay Kadam is a lecturer in construction management and civil engineering.
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