Builders *

What's in it for me?

You could get paid more...

In 2004/5, 97% of people starting Apprenticeships in engineering in England were men, while 97% of apprentices in early year care and education were women. The work that women tend to do is often less well paid than work traditionally done by men. In fact, the average hourly rate of pay for men working full-time is £14.08, while for women it's only £11.67- a staggering 17% less.

And here are some examples of how wages can compare in each career:

Description Starting Salary Experienced Senior
Plumber
(Self-employed plumbers negotiate their own rates).		 £16,500 - £21,000 £21,000 - £30,000 £35,000 +
Electrical Engineer Technician
 £13,000 - £18,000 £18,500 - £23,500 £25,000 - £31,000
Civil Engineer £19,500 - £23,000 £24,000 - £37,000 circa £49,000 (chartered)
IT Network Manager £24,000 - £31,000 £33,500 - £47,000 £50,000 (including strategic responsibilities)
Building Technician £14,500 - £16,500 £17,000 - £23,500 £25,000 - £30,000
And in comparison...
Hair Dresser National minmum wage £10,000 - £16,000 £30,000 + (at the top of the profession, depending on employer/ location)
Nursery Nurse
 £9,000 - £11,500 £14,000 - £17,000 £32,000 (office managers/ supervisors)

Pay rates may be higher in areas with greater demand.

...for doing what you love.

Careers in engineering or construction give you the chance to affect the world we live in, while plumbing and information technology let you improve the way we live. In any case, you'll gain hands-on practical knowledge, expertise in an area you're interested in and the chance to think creatively.

You'll face new challenges every day and could end up taking your skills all around the world. And because this type of work is always in demand, you'll probably be able to work until you want to stop. But that's not all. Because of this demand, you're likely to get a training allowance so you can support yourself while learning your trade.

Plus, the qualifications you achieve mean that you'll be free to become self-employed, which gives you the chance to enjoy your work, without neglecting your life.

 
Logos: Equal Opportunities Commission, Jive Partners, European Union Social Fund
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