The content of this Pathway has been agreed by CITB. This is the only Civil Engineering Apprenticeship Pathway in the Construction and Building Services sector approved for use in Wales that is eligible for Medr funding.
ISSUE DATE: 01/04/2026 ACW Framework no: FR05068v2
Cynnwys y Rhaglen Ddysgu
The Learning Programme provision shall comprise of three mandatory elements:
- Qualifications,
- Essential Skills
- On/off the job training
The total minimum credit value required for the Level 4 Civil Engineering Higher Technical Pathway is 120
Gofynion mynediad
There are a variety of ways to enter an apprenticeship in construction as a Civil engineering Higher technician at Level 4, for example:
• previously worked in a related construction technical occupation
Level 3 Construction Craft Apprenticeship
Level 3 Civil Engineering Technical Apprenticeship
Level 3 Construction Technical Qualification
Welsh Baccalaureate
A Levels
• work experience and a positive attitude
• Pre-Apprenticeship Learning
Rhaglen(ni) dd/dysgu'r llwybr prentisiaeth
Level 4 Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technician
Level 4 Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technician Cymwysterau
Participants must achieve the following combined qualification below.
| Level 4 - BTEC Higher Nationals Civil Engineering Certificate | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corff Dyfarnu | Rhif y Cymhwyster | Gwerth Credyd | Cyfanswm Amser y Cymhwyster | Cymhwysedd / Gwybodaeth / Cyfun | Iaith/Ieithoedd Asesu'r Cymhwyster |
| Pearson | C00/4702/1 | 120 | 1200 | Cymhwysedd | English Welsh |
Please see annexes 1 and 2 for the relationship between competence and knowledge
Sgiliau Hanfodol Cymru (ESW)
| Level 4 Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technician | Lefel | Isafswm Gwerth Credyd |
|---|---|---|
| Cyfathrebu | 2 | 6 |
| Cymhwyso Rhif | 2 | 6 |
Essential Skills Wales qualifications assessment languages are English-Welsh
Hyfforddi yn y gwaith / i ffwrdd o'r gwaith
| Llwybr | Isafswm Oriau Hyfforddi yn y Gwaith | Isafswm Oriau Hyfforddi i Ffwrdd o'r Gwaith |
|---|---|---|
| Level 4 Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technician | 1220 | 320 |
The total amount of training hours - which includes both on and off-the-job learning for this Pathway is 1540 training hours.
Manylion y Cymhwyster yn y Gwaith/i Ffwrdd o'r Gwaith (Isafswm Credydau ac Oriau)
Manylion Sgiliau Hanfodol yn y Gwaith/i Ffwrdd o'r Gwaith (Isafswm Credydau ac Oriau)
6 credits / 45 GLH Level 1 Essential Skills Wales Communication
6 credits / 45 GLH Level 1 Essential Skills Wales Application of Number
Gofynion eraill ychwanegol
Civil Engineering Higher Technician | Level | Minimum Credit Value |
Digital Skills for Construction | 2 | 3 |
Learners will be asked to declare any criminal convictions, bankruptcy or CJJs at the time of registration onto the Providing Financial Services qualification.
Rolau swydd
A Level 4 Civil Engineering Higher Apprentice supports the planning, design, and delivery of construction and infrastructure projects while developing technical and professional skills through structured training. The role blends practical site experience with office‑based engineering tasks, helping apprentices build a strong foundation for a future career as a civil engineering technician or engineer.
Key Responsibilities
Assist with project design and planning, including producing drawings, models, and technical documents under supervision.
Carry out site inspections and surveys, collecting data and reporting findings to senior engineers.
Support project management tasks, such as monitoring progress, quality, safety, and environmental compliance.
Use engineering software (e.g., CAD, BIM tools) to contribute to design and analysis work.
Interpret technical information, including plans, specifications, and regulations.
Communicate with contractors, clients, and colleagues, helping coordinate work on active projects.
Maintain accurate records, such as site notes, test results, and project documentation.
Follow health, safety, and environmental standards at all times.
Dilyniant
Progression routes into:
This will be from a variety of routes, including:
People typically enter a Level 4 Civil Engineering Higher Technical Apprenticeship through one of four pathways:
Academic qualifications such as A‑levels (often including maths or science), a Level 3 BTEC in Construction & the Built Environment.
Progression from a lower‑level apprenticeship, most commonly the Level 3 Civil Engineering Technician apprenticeship.
Relevant industry experience, where applicants already work in construction or engineering roles and can demonstrate practical understanding and aptitude.
Employer‑sponsored entry, where companies recruit apprentices directly and support them into the Level 4 programme based on internal assessments or potential.
These routes ensure candidates have the technical grounding and capability needed for higher‑level civil engineering training.
Progression from:
A Level 4 Civil Engineering Higher Apprenticeship provides a solid technical foundation and typically leads to degree‑level study or professional technician roles.
Apprentices can progress to Level 6 degree apprenticeships such as Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Site Management, or Design & Construction Management.
It also supports EngTech professional registration with bodies like ICE or CABE.
Career progression often includes roles such as Senior Technician, Site Technician, or Design Technician, with opportunities to specialise in areas like structures, highways, geotechnics, or water engineering.
Cydraddoldeb ac Amrywiaeth
It is important that apprenticeship Pathways are inclusive and can demonstrate an active approach to identifying and removing barriers to entry and progression. Pathways should advance equality of opportunity between persons who share protected characteristics and those persons who do not as identified in the Equality Act 2010.
The protected characteristics identified in the Equality Act are age, disability, gender re-assignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity. Marriage and civil partnership is also included although only in respect of the requirement to eliminate discrimination in employment.
Training providers and employers MUST also comply with the other duty under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure that applicants are not discriminated against in terms of entry to the industry based upon those nine protected characteristics.
Although the construction industry has not, historically, been a traditional career choice for women. This has now changed, and women are better supported and work successfully in the industry.
The sectoral bodies work at local, regional and national levels to identify and address issues around equality and diversity. This work is supported by local/national government, non-governmental bodies/agencies and relevant Unions.
It is a requirement that apprentice recruitment is open and fair to all who meet the selection criteria, regardless of gender, ethnic origin, religion/belief, sexual orientation or disability.
All partners involved in the delivery of the apprenticeship and employers must be committed to a policy of equal opportunities and must have a formal equal opportunities policy and procedure in place.
Employers/providers must be able to demonstrate that there are no overt or covert discriminatory practices in selection and employment. All promotional, selection and training activities must comply with relevant legislation such as the Equality Act 2010.
Providers will monitor equality of opportunity practice and procedures within their own organisation and take positive action when necessary. It is also recommended that employers/providers conduct an exit interview if the apprentice leaves the programme before completion.
Cyfrifoldebau a hawliau cyflogaeth (CHC)
Employment Responsibilities and Rights (ERR) is no longer compulsory. But it is recommended that all apprentices (especially the 16 years -18 year group) receive a company induction programme.
Cyfrifoldebau
It is the responsibility of the Training Provider and Employer to ensure that the requirements of this pathway are delivered in accordance with the Welsh Government/ Medr Apprenticeships Guidance.
Further information may be obtained from: Medr
Annex 1 Knowledge Skills and Behaviours for a Civil Engineering Higher Technician Apprentice (Wales)
Relationship between competence and knowledge qualifications
These are combined construction Civil Engineering Higher Technical qualifications that deliver both the knowledge and competence requirements as set out in the individual learning and skills pathway outcomes Knowledge, Skills, and behaviors available in the learning outcomes documents contained in annex 1 below.
Annex 1
Knowledge Skills and Behaviours for a Civil Engineering Higher Technician Apprentice (Wales)
Based on ICE EngTech attributes and requirements of the IHE.
Knowledge
A Civil Engineer Technician will know how
K 1.1 Use appropriate scientific, technical or engineering principles (links to S1.1)
K1.2 Review and select techniques, procedures and methods to undertake engineering tasks (links to S1.2)
K1.3 Identify problems and apply appropriate methods to identify causes and achieve satisfactory solutions (Links to S1.3)
K2.1 Identify tasks and organise resources to complete them effectively (links to S2.1)
K2.2 Work reliably and accept responsibility for their work or the work of others (Links to S2.2)
K2.3 Complete tasks with due consideration for quality (Links to S2.3)
K3.1 Identify, organise and use resources with consideration of cost (Links to S3.1)
K4.1 Understand the safety implications of the role including Relevant and current legislation e.g. CDM (Links to S4.1)
K4.2 Complete tasks with due consideration for safety (Links to S4.2)
K4.3 Comply with safe systems of work (Links to S4.3)
K5.1 Understand the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work (Links to S5.1)
K5.2 Complete tasks with consideration for their environmental impact) (Links to S5.2)
K6.1 Communicate well with others at all levels including effective use of English and/or Welsh using appropriate methods and/or platforms. Including understanding what communication methods/options are available and when each is most effective. (Links to S6.1)
K6.2 Work effectively with colleagues, clients, suppliers and/or the public (Links to S6.2)
K7.1 Use digital tools to promote efficient/effective methods of work safely and securely. (links to S7.1)
K7.2 Undertake effective review of own performance, tasks/projects and own and own competence (links to S7.2)
K7.3 Understand Professional Body Code of Conduct (links to S7.3)
Additional knowledge requirements for Highway Engineers
K7.4 Co-operate, understand and appreciate the role of other (multiple) disciplines within a project. (links to S7.4)
K7.5 Manage and maintain assets during the lifecycle of a project (links to S7.5)
Skills
A Civil Engineering Higher Technician will be able to demonstrate the following skills in the workplace.
Will be able to.
S1.1 Use appropriate scientific, technical or engineering principles (links to K1.1)
S1.2 Review and select techniques, procedures and methods to undertake engineering tasks (links to KS1.2)
S1.3 Identify problems and apply appropriate methods to identify causes and achieve satisfactory solutions (Links to K1.3)
S2.1 Identify tasks and organise resources to complete them effectively (links to K2.1)
S2.2 Work reliably and accept responsibility for their work or the work of others (Links to K2.2)
S2.3 Complete tasks with due consideration for quality (Links to K2.3)
S 3.1 Identify, organise and use resources with consideration of cost (Links to K3.1)
S4.1 Implement the ethics security and safety implications of the role including requirements of relevant and current legislation e.g. CDM (Links to K4.1)
S4.2 Complete tasks with due consideration for safety and security (Links to K4.2)
S4.3 Comply with safe systems of work (Links to K4.3)
S5.1 Apply the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work (Links to K5.1)
S5.2 Complete tasks with consideration for their environmental impact) (Links to K5.2)
S6.1 Demonstrate that they can communicate well with others either orally/written or using technical documents at all levels including effective use of English and/or Welsh using appropriate methods and/or platforms (Links to K6.1)
S6.2 Work effectively with colleagues, clients, suppliers or the public (Links to K6.2)
S7.1 Use digital tools to promote efficient/effective methods of work safely and securely. (links to S7.1)
S7.2 Undertake effective review of own performance, tasks/projects and own and own competence. (links to S7.2)
S7.3 Demonstrate compliance with Professional Body Code of Conduct (links to S7.3)
Additional skill requirements for Highway Engineers
S7.4 Co-operate, understand and appreciate the role of other (multiple) disciplines within a project. (links to K7.4)
S7.5 Manage or contribute to the management of the maintenance pf assets during the lifecycle of a project. (links to K7.5)
Behaviours
A Civil Engineering Higher Technician will demonstrate the following.
B8.1 Personal and social skills including consideration of other points of view with empathy and respect.
B8.2 Awareness of diversity and inclusion and acts respectfully to all applying the principles of inclusivity
B8.3 Professional curiosity willing to undertake personal development activities to maintain competence and contribute to a learning culture including complying with Professional Body Code of Conduct and requirement.
B8.4 Act ethically safely and security understanding to address issues that may arise in their role and carry out their responsibilities in an ethical manner.
B8.5 Carry out and record Continuing Professional Development (CPD) necessary to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice
B8.6 good communication and recognize that is key to safe efficient and high-quality work.
B8.7 Individuals should value 2-way communication encouraging others to raise questions or concerns, pro-actively reporting problems when they arise.
B8.8 Mindful of the limits of own experience and works within the limits of own competence.
B 8.9 Acting ethically safely and security prioritizing a commitment to a strong safety and security culture
B.8.10 Open to engaging in collaborative processes demonstrating effective teamwork and communication as an individual and as a member of a team
Annex 2 Competency Assessment Process for Wales Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technical Apprenticeships
Competency Assessment Process for Wales Construction Civil Engineering Higher Technical Apprenticeships Competency assessment will need to be assessed based on evidence from the workplace. All Skills and Behaviours for the occupation will need to be experienced practiced and attained.
The process below is based on the current elements of Construction Apprenticeships assessment in Wales.
Employer Confirmation (skills) that skills have been practiced and the apprentice can undertake these skills competently. (This assessment will have an element of subjectivity as some employers may be more stringent and require higher standards of competency than others). The employer and provider confirm and agree that all skill requirements have been met.
The assessment elements above can be evidenced through recorded discussion between the employer/mentor and tutor/assessor, through a diary of work placed activity countersigned by the employer/mentor or a combination of both.
Employer Confirmation (behaviours) that the employer has witnessed the behaviors included in the Occupational KSB’s and that the apprentice has effectively demonstrated these positive behaviors in the workplace (This assessment will have an element of subjectivity as some employers may be more stringent and require higher standards of behavior than others). The employer and provider confirm and agree that all behavioral requirements have been met.
The assessment elements above can be evidenced through recorded discussions, or appraisal meetings between the employer/mentor, through a diary of work placed behaviour or a combination of all confirmed by the employer/mentor.
Assessment of competence by tutors/assessors must satisfy learning outcomes of the Civil Engineering Higher Technical apprenticeship and can be evidenced through a range of assessment strategies, including for example work-based assignments as part of the HNC Qualification, observation of apprentice behavior.
Work placed project will be undertaken when both the employer and the HEI agree that the apprentice has achieved competence and is ready for assessment. The project should include an element of observation in the workplace by either the employer or the Tutor/assessor, a substantial academic assignment related to the workplace and a professional discussion.
Final assessment should be undertaken prior to the final academic assessment this will ensure that apprentices complete all elements of the apprenticeship and not attain a only. The stages for final assessment will be employer confirmation combined with provider assessment and a Workplace Project.
Apprenticeship certification will require evidence from the employer that they agree that the apprentice has attained the skills and behaviors required in the KSB’s (this can be in the form of a company letter headed confirmation letter signed and dated by the employer) and a copy of the qualification certificates. Knowledge will be assessed as part of the academic qualification awarding process.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL) can be used as evidence of previous experience and learning where the Provider is able to verify that it has taken place. This evidence should be presented and assessed as outlined above and meet the Providers’ academic regulations. Accreditation of related experience and learning is at the discretion of the provider.