Hands-On Learning, Real-World Success: Inside the Formwork Bootcamp

Location Build East Read Time 3 minutes

At the Build East Skills Centre, learners are not just gaining qualifications — they’re building real futures in the construction industry.

Formwork is a crucial part of construction, involving the creation of temporary or permanent moulds into which concrete is poured to form structural elements like columns, beams, walls, and slabs. Skilled formworkers are in high demand across major infrastructure and building projects, making it a valuable trade for those starting a construction career.

We caught up with two recent graduates of our Formwork Bootcamp, Jordan and Jabril, to hear about their experiences, journeys, and successes after completing the course.

How did you hear about The Skills Centre?

Both learners found their way to this bootcamp through difference avenues, but both were motivated by the desire to build a career in construction.

Jordan – Online, I was looking for trades and came across this form of work course. It was a perfect opportunity for me to learn and earn towards a stable career.

Jabril – I was directed to the centre by a close friend of mine.

What did you particularly like/enjoy about your bootcamp?

Our bootcamps are structured to offer hands-on practical learning experiences that can help those with different styles of learning and working.

Jordan – I am a very hands-on worker and prefer thinking out tasks, so learning to read drawings and cutting SRE was truly enjoyable.

Jabril - I enjoyed the process of how Jamie showed us how to hone our skills.

Have you got any advice for someone who wants to do the programme?

Often our learners come away from these experiences with clear advice for others who are considering enrolling, frequently emphasising punctuality, focus and professionalism.

Jordan – Stay focused, soak up all the information, don’t be scared to ask questions and use the opportunity to gain a basic understanding.

Jabril – Arrive early, make a good impression and when you’re not sure, ask the tutors, they will happily explain things to you again.

Arrive early, make a good impression and when you’re not sure, ask the tutors, they will happily explain things to you again. Jabril

Now that you have completed your programme, how will the qualifications benefit you?

The skills, confidence and industry connections built through our bootcamps often translate into career opportunities.

Jordan – I will use them to further upskill and to work safely.

Jabril – I have been offered an apprenticeship with Kilnbridge to become a form worker.

After completing the bootcamp, Jordan joined us at our Green Skills Hub opening, to share his experience at The Skills Centre with the local community, including employers, Hackney Council and the London Legacy Development Corporation. He had just started an apprenticeship with Morris Roe, and was excited to share his experience so far.

“I didn’t mind how long it was going to take, I just wanted to see the other side. [...] The ability to network has been Number 1. I have met a lot of people who I think I will stay in contact with for a long time to come. [...] The tutors have helped me so much, both in and outside of the training”

We are hoping to be able to follow up with Jordan to find out how he is getting on now – he should be on his apprenticeship still, we want to know how it’s going, a bit more detail about his experience at The Skills Centre.

I have met a lot of people who I think I will stay in contact with for a long time to come. [...] The tutors have helped me so much, both in and outside of the training Jordan