About the Programme
Procure Plus’ CITB Onsite Experience funding is designed to grow the construction talent pool by creating a pipeline of skilled people to meet the needs of local construction employers. The programme also provides meaningful opportunities for people from local communities to start careers in construction.
Working in partnership with Working @ Heights Safety Solutions in North Shields, the programme develops employment – and site-ready individuals through a comprehensive pre-employment training offer and a week-long work placement.
Harley’s Journey
Harley Hall, from Newcastle, heard about the pre-employment programme through a friend who had completed the course and was now working with a scaffolding company. After attending an open day, Harley decided to join the August 2025 course at Working @ Heights Safety Solutions.
The programme included a comprehensive schedule of training designed to prepare participants for work in construction, which covered:
- Construction health and safety
- Manual handling
- CCNSG Safety Passport
- CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS)
- First Aid
- Abrasive Wheel training
- Scaffolders Labourer CSCS card
Following the training, Harley completed a one-week work experience placement with Castle Scaffold Northern Ltd, gaining practical experience in a real working environment, developing hands-on skills, and building confidence for a future career in scaffolding.Harley said
“The two weeks have been really enjoyable. The training was and great and I enjoyed the work experience to. Prior to this I had completed a motor vehicle course at a local training centre which was ok however, after completing this I know I want to be working outside on a site. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking to start a career in scaffolding and construction”.
Programme Impact
Since the programme launched in December 2023, more than 90 people have attended and completed the course, with over 60 participants successfully progressing into work — either through labouring roles or apprenticeships.
In their words
"Thanks to our partnership with Procure Plus, this fully funded pre-employment course provides local people with the chance to gain essential skills, industry-recognised qualifications, and real hands-on experience. The programme includes the CCNSG Safety Passport, giving participants a strong foundation in health and safety, and the CISRS Operative Training Scheme (COTS), which is the first step towards achieving a CISRS Scaffolder Labourer Card. The added benefit of a work placement with Castle Scaffolding allows individuals to apply their learning in a real working environment, build confidence, and make valuable industry connections. Together, this joined-up approach is helping to create genuine pathways into sustainable employment in the scaffolding industry and supporting local people into work".
– George Anderson, Funding Learning Manager at Working @ Heights Safety Solutions
Have you read these?
Need help, advice or support?
Call us right now on:
Alternatively, schedule a call or meeting with one of our team
We have a team of experts ready and waiting to talk you through any queries you have, whether you’re a new or existing customer.
