A career path into building control: University of Wolverhampton’s degree apprenticeship
The University of Wolverhampton is helping to address the national shortage of building control professionals by offering a Building Control Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship – a programme designed to equip the next generation with the technical knowledge and practical experience they need to succeed.
The introduction of new competency requirements by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has prompted many experienced inspectors to retire, creating a growing skills gap. Apprenticeships provide an important solution, combining academic study with real-world training.
Currently, only two institutions in the UK provide this route: the University of Wolverhampton and the University of the Built Environment. Both offer structured training programmes where apprentices “earn while they learn,” with tuition largely funded through the apprenticeship levy.
Learning while working
At Wolverhampton, apprentices spend four days a week with their employer and one day studying remotely. Weekly online sessions are supported by two intensive residential study weeks each year. The four-year course is delivered in partnership with Local Authority Building Control (LABC) and the National House Building Council (NHBC), ensuring both public and private sector engagement.
The curriculum covers everything from the basics of Building Regulations and Approved Documents to advanced topics such as fire safety strategies, sports stadia design, and complex building projects. Site visits – including a partnership with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC – give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Growing talent locally
Local authorities such as Dorset Council are actively investing in the programme. Their apprentices gain experience across the county, shadowing and learning from experienced surveyors before progressing to lead on site visits under supervision.
David Kitcatt, Service Manager for Building Control at Dorset, highlights the value:
“With the experience they are getting via the degree and on-site training, apprentices are developing quickly. It’s a real investment in our team’s future capability.”
Apprentice perspectives
Apprentices themselves echo this view:
Kristina Little, Area Building Control Surveyor: “The combination of academic studies and on-the-job learning has equipped me with the skills I need to fulfil my role as a Registered Building Inspector.”
Tom Collier, Area Building Control Surveyor: “The hands-on experience has reinforced my knowledge and supported my professional registration.”
Abigail Mason, Assistant Building Control Surveyor: “Although challenging, the apprenticeship has given me the practical skills and technical understanding to progress towards becoming a qualified surveyor.”
Why choose an apprenticeship?
- earn a salary while studying towards a degree qualification;
- access government-funded training through the apprenticeship levy;
- combine academic knowledge with real-world site experience;
- gain support from experienced mentors across local authorities and private sector providers; and
- contribute directly to closing the skills gap in building control.
Find out more about the University of Wolverhampton course here
Explore how Dorset Council is developing talent in building control here
The original version of this article first appeared in Building Engineer, the official publication for members of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers.
Image credit: Dorset Council