Early Careers
Explore your career pathways with Colas Ltd, where your educational interests can align with a fulfilling future in the transport infrastructure industry.
Opportunities span across roles like Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Intelligent Transport Systems, and more. If you’re over 16 and eager to learn in a professional setting, check out how you can take the first step towards a rewarding career with Colas Ltd.
Whether you're interested in engineering, environmental consultancy, or business administration, this guide will illuminate the pathways that can lead to rewarding careers at Colas Ltd. Discover how your education can pave the way for a successful future in a thriving industry.
Subject Alignment
By focusing on these subjects, students can explore various pathways that align with their interests and strengths, leading to rewarding careers in the transport infrastructure industry with Colas Ltd.Mathematics
- Roles: Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management.
- Pathways: Students can pursue A-levels in Mathematics and Physics, followed by an apprenticeship in Civil Engineering or Quantity Surveying. These roles require strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Civil engineering - 12 Types of Civil Engineering Branches
QS - Quantity Surveyor Forum - Youth4work and Welcome to RICS
Construction Management - What is Construction Management? Key Roles and Responsibilities Explained
Science (Physics, Chemistry)
- Roles: Environmental Engineering, Quality Control, Materials Science.
- Pathways: Students can take A-levels in Physics and Chemistry, leading to apprenticeships in Environmental Engineering or Quality Control. These roles involve understanding material properties and environmental impacts.
Geography
- Roles: Environmental Consultancy, Urban Planning, Transport Planning.
- Pathways: Students can study Geography at A-level, followed by apprenticeships in Environmental Consultancy or Urban Planning. These roles focus on environmental assessments, sustainability, and planning.
Useful Links
Information Technology (IT)
- Roles: IT Support, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Design, System Integration.
- Pathways: Students can take courses in IT and Computer Science, leading to apprenticeships in ITS Design or System Integration. These roles require technical skills in managing digital infrastructure and developing smart transport solutions.
Useful links
Home - ITS UK - HEA Specialist Training - Highway Electrical Association
What is System Integration: Types, Methods, Benefits & Challenges — IT Companies Network
Design and Technology
- Roles: Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Construction Management.
- Pathways: Students can pursue Design and Technology at A-level, followed by apprenticeships in Mechanical Engineering or Product Design. These roles involve creativity and technical expertise in designing and managing construction projects.
Apprenticeship Roles at Colas
These apprenticeships offer a great way to earn while you learn, gaining valuable job experience and nationally recognized qualifications. Colas Ltd works closely with local schools, colleges, and industry groups to provide diverse opportunities for apprentices.Summary
An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable experiences.
Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognised qualification.
An apprenticeship includes:
- paid employment with holiday leave
- hands-on-experience in a sector/role of interest
- at least 20% off-the-job training
- formal assessment which leads to a nationally recognised qualification
Who can apply?
- An apprenticeship is a great paid work opportunity for people over the age of 16 in England who are:
- early in their career
- looking to upskill in their current job
- looking for a career-change
- not in full-time education
- If you do not live in England, check out apprenticeship options in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Apprenticeship levels
Different apprenticeship levels equate to different qualification levels.
An apprenticeship can start at any level, but some may require:
previous qualifications such as English or maths GCSEs additional training in English or maths to ensure the apprentice is at the right level..
One of the following qualification levels will be achieved depending on the apprenticeship level:
Level, Equivalent education level
- Intermediate, 2, GCSE
- Advanced, 3, A level
- Higher, 4,5,6 and 7, Foundation degree and above
- Degree, 6 and 7, Bachelor’s or master’s degree
Discover the exciting career opportunities at Colas Ltd, where your educational choices can shape a rewarding future in the transport infrastructure industry.
If you are looking for an organisation where you can grow, be recognised for your individual talents and have the opportunity to achieve your full potential, then Colas is the place for you.