Competence Frameworks

On this page:

• What are Competence Frameworks?
• Why is a Competence Framework needed for the construction industry?
• Competence Frameworks Development
• Sign up for a working group
• Current Competence Framework Developments
• What is the Standards Team doing?

What are Competence Frameworks?

Competence Frameworks will set out and define the core competence requirements for individuals across the built environment. They are made up of a Route to Competence and a SKEB document (Skills, Knowledge, Experience & Behaviour) and an Implementation Plan

• The Route to Competence will highlight the qualification routes available for individuals to achieve a level of competence.
• The SKEB statement listing the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours (SKEB) required to obtain competence in the role(s) covered by the framework and show the training available to support those competencies and any re-validation requirements.
• an Implementation Plan, is a programme and timetable for each occupation to achieve full compliance with competence framework requirements, including delivery of the necessary training and assessment infrastructure.

Why is a Competence Framework needed for the construction industry?

As the Building Safety Act comes into effect, individuals will be required to prove that they are competent to do the job that they are on-site to do, so it is imperative that we have competence defined for all (in scope) roles.

Whilst the Building Safety Act currently focuses on those working on higher-risk buildings (HRBs), CITB will support Sector Lead Group 10 (SLG 10), a subgroup of the Industry Competence Steering Group (ICSG), to consult with industry to develop Competence Frameworks.

Competence Frameworks will help improve competence by providing clarity and consistency across the industry with links to accredited qualifications and approved training, also supporting the strategy for addressing the skills demand.

From standardising competence and identifying the qualification landscape, an implementation plan will be produced which will help address any gaps identified by the consultation process and the defining of the Competence Framework.

Competence Framework Development

CITB’s collaborative approach with Sector Lead Group 10 (SLG 10) will support the strategy for the development of standardised Competence Framework’s, improving coordination amongst the sectors to avoid gaps and duplication across the Built Environment.

CITB will offer industry the opportunity to be involved in Competence Framework development, by either being part of a working group or contributing through online surveys.

Working Group (WGs) requirements and typical timescales:

• industry experts familiar with the occupation
• approximately once or twice a month (virtually)
• face-to-face meetings if preferred by working groups
• meetings can be from one to three hours (in agreement with the working group)

On average, Competency Framework reviews run for six months. Digital Offline consultation (through email or survey) is offered for people who are time limited but want to be part of the consultation and have their say.

A further 30-day online review and feedback period will be available at the end of the consultation.

Sign up for a Working Group

Current Competence Framework Developments

What is the Standards Team doing?

The Standards Team is collaborating in Competence Framework development alongside the Sector Lead Group 10 (SLG 10) by carrying out the following:

• initial research
• establishing working groups
• arranging meetings
• facilitating meetings
• collating meeting notes and actions
• producing documents for working group members to review
• collating feedback for working group review
• working closely with industry experts and stakeholders to ensure the content of standards meets the needs of the construction industry.
• encouraging wider 4 nation consultation and feedback

The dedication and experience of working group members enables CITB to develop the Competence Frameworks which support the construction industry to have a skilled, competent, and inclusive workforce now and in the future.