The Demolition Trailblazer Apprenticeship 2026 is already underway in collaboration with the National Federation of Demolition Contractors and London South East Colleges, as the seventh cohort of apprentices arrived at the Hemel Hempstead training centre to begin their introduction to the demolition industry on Monday (23/02).
Designed to build safe working practices from day one, the programme begins with core demolition theory before apprentices move into practical site experience with their employers. This week’s sessions explored the role of a CCDO Demolition Labourer, the risks associated with asbestos and correct procedures when it is encountered, alongside essential health and safety skills that prepare operatives for modern demolition worksites.
This knowledge, supported by resources including our new Be Smart, Be Safe booklet, will help apprentices transition into on-the-job learning with their employers as they begin their careers.
Would you like to see apprentices at your business? Sign up for an alert on when we open our next intake.
About the apprenticeship
Supporting businesses across the demolition industry, the apprenticeship provides an opportunity to develop CCDO-carded operatives with the specialist skills required for demolition projects.
As interest in demolition careers has declined among younger generations over the past 20 years, the programme is open to applicants aged 16–65 and may also include existing employees, offering additional recruitment flexibility for employers.
The apprenticeship starts each Autumn and includes 34 classroom days across two years (23 in Year 1 and 11 in Year 2), working towards a CCDO Demolition & Refurbishment Operative role.
Why are apprenticeships like the Trailblazer important within the built environment?
Stricter safety expectations following the Grenfell Tower disaster have increased the need for operatives to demonstrate competence in their roles across the built environment, with accreditation schemes such as CCDO providing clear evidence of capability.
Apprenticeships encourage early conversations around safety, skills and professional attitude, helping operatives develop strong working habits from the start of their careers. Guidance from work coaches and trainers prepares apprentices for the challenges of specialist environments while reducing the training burden placed on employers.
Across the built environment, programmes like this help strengthen the labour pool by developing competent workers aligned with employer standards, supporting efficient project delivery.
If you are interested in taking on apprentices at your company, sign up for early alerts on our next intake.
