CECA Civil Engineering Operative (NPA Construction Operations) SCQF 5 (Fort William) NPA

What is special about this course?

The Civil Engineering Industry is at the forefront of designing, constructing, and maintaining essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water supply systems, and more. In Scotland, this industry is instrumental in developing sustainable solutions that support economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The CECA Scotland Academy provides a training to employment programme developing a future pipeline of talent to the Civil Engineering Industry in Scotland. This programme is being run as a national pilot and is supported by Civil Engineering Contractors Association and their industry members. 

Upon successfully finishing the programme, participants will be awarded a National Progression Award (NPA) qualification in civil engineering. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to participate in an employer event featuring interviews, paving a direct pathway into the industry as a certified civil engineering operative. Additionally, candidates will receive training and take the required examination to obtain their CSCS card for site access.

Industry employers affiliated with CECA have committed to ensuring a 75% employment rate for successful candidates entering the workforce as Civil Engineering Operatives.

Entry requirements

  • One pass at National 4 or relevant work placement taster in industry.
  • Learners are likely to benefit more readily from study of the award if they enter with a general and broad academic ability showing an aptitude at SCQF level 3 and above for English, Mathematics and other related technical and graphical subjects. 
  • Workplace Health Safety and Welfare
  • Conform to Productive Work Practices
  • Set Out Secondary Dimensional Work Controls: An Introduction
  • Install Road Drainage
  • Lay Kerbs and Channels
  • Excavate Holes and Trenches
  • Reinstate Ground Conditions
  • Form Concrete Structures
  • Lay and Finish Concrete
  • Work Readiness (Site visits/further specialist practical skills)

This course will be available in January 2025 subject to awarding body approval.

How will I study my course?

  • Full Time

5 days per week including 2 days a week paid work experience. 

This course is available to Early School Release pupils, however these students do not qualify for paid work placement.  Coursework and unpaid work experience will be substituted for these students.

How long will my course last?

19 Weeks

Where can I study my course?

    • Fort William

Start date

January 2025

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

What can I do on completion of my course?

Employment Opportunities
Upon completing the NPA qualification, candidates are guaranteed a job interview with a civil engineering employer. This national pilot programme, supported by the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) and its industry members, ensures that successful candidates participate in an employer event at the end of the course. Employers have committed to a 75% employment rate for those who qualify as Civil Engineering Operatives.

Progression Options
Graduates of this programme can progress to:

  • MA Civil Engineering Operations
  • NC Civil Engineering
  • NC Built Environment

Candidates may also be eligible to apply for construction trade apprenticeships.

Is there more information available online?

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Apply for CECA Civil Engineering Operative (NPA Construction Operations) SCQF 5 (Fort William) NPA

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We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.