The skills needed to care for properties in Hampshire for the long term blend decades of expertise with exciting developments in new technology.

But the building preservation and protection sector can sometimes fall under the radar compared to more traditional skills such as plumbing and electrics.

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week the Property Care Association (PCA) is putting the spotlight on its specialised programmes which offer a clear route to progression in this important industry.

The PCA offers two specialist applied skills programmes - one in damp and timber, and the other in structural waterproofing. Each is similar to an apprenticeship but designed with the support of the Construction Industry Training Board specifically for the small number of new entrants in the sector.

After an 18-month period of training and assessment the programmes lead to Level 2 National Vocational Qualifications, in insulation and building treatments for those taking part in the timber preservation and damp programme, and sub-structure work occupations for trainees completing the structural waterproofing course.

Sarah Garry - chief executive of the PCA, which represents member companies across Hampshire - said: “Both programmes support new operatives, both young people and career changers, into a property care sector which can offer a lifetime of learning and a varied, interesting and rewarding career.

“Our specialist sector, and construction in general, has skills shortages, so it is vital that we continue to attract people to the industry, and the blend of off-site training and on-the-job employer support greatly assists in providing a pathway into a skilled career which is not always on the radar like other trades.”

Future steps for trainees could include achievement of the PCA’s certificated surveyor in timber and dampness or certificated surveyor in structural waterproofing qualifications which the PCA has been running for more than 30 years.